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ILLUSTRATED  DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 

OF 

THE  FLAG  AND  SEAL 

OF  THE 

CONFEDERATE  STATES  OF  AMERICA. 

18  61-  6 5. 


Part  I.— Extracts  from  the  Journals  of  the  Confederate  Congress  on  legislation  affecting 
the  flag  and  seal— 36  pages  of  text  and  1 1 full-page  designs. 

Part  II.— Correspondence  inclosing  designs  for  a flag  and  seal— 67  pages  of  text  and 
191  full-page  designs. 

Part  III.— Editorials,  communications,  poetry,  &c.,  relating  to  the  Confederate  flag  and 
seal— 97  pages  of  text  and  29  full-page  designs. 


COMPILED  BY 

RAPHAEL  3?_  TECIAlsT, 

CHIEF  CLERK  ADJUTANT  GENERAL’S  OFFICE,  "WAR  DEPARTMENT. 


On  motion  of  Mr.  Miles,  of  South  Carolina,  the  Confederate  Congress,  February  9,  1861, 
appointed  a committee,  consisting  of  one  member  from  each  State,  to  take  into  consideration  the 
adoption  of  a flag  and  seal  symbolizing  the  aims,  ambition,  &c.,  of  the  young  aspirant  for  admission 
into  the  family  of  nations ; and  on  the  7th  of  March,  1861,  the  numerous  models  and  designs  sub- 
mitted to  Congress  and  referred  to  the  committee  were  placed  in  the  custody  of  the  Clerk  of  the 
House  of  Representatives,  who  was  authorized  to  return  them  to  the  several  authors  or  contributors, 
at  their  own  expense,  whenever  they  should  apply  for  the  same. 

Few,  evidently,  were  so  returned,  for,  including  designs  submitted  to  Congress  from  time  to 
time  down  to  1865,  217  designs  for  a flag  and  13  for  a seal  have  survived  the  vicissitudes  of  the 
war  and  are  described  and  illustrated  in  this  volume. 

Some  of  the  designs  possess  considerable  merit,  but  the  great  majority,  as  Mr.  Miles,  the  chair- 
man of  the  committee,  remarked  in  his  report  (submitted  March  7,  1861),  are  divisible  into  two 
great  classes : 1.  Those  which  copy  the  principal  features  of  the  United  States  flag,  with  slight 
and  unimportant  modifications ; 2.  Those  which  are  elaborate,  complicated,  or  fantastical. 

While  a few  of  the  designs  were  more  or  less  artistically  drawn  and  colored,  very  many  were 
rudely  indicated  by  pencil  sketches,  and  the  appearance  of  others  could  only  be  determined  by 
constructing  a flag  according  to  the  written  description  of  what  the  writers  intended.  This  remark 
applies  in  all  cases  but  one  to  the  designs  for  a Confederate  seal,  the  exception  being  that  of  the  seal 
adopted  by  the  Congress,  the  representation  in  this  volume  being  a perfect  copy  of  the  great  seal 
engraved  in  England,  in  1864,  by  the  late  Joseph  S.  Wyon,  Esq.,  the  predecessor  of  Messrs.  J.  S. 
and  A.  B.  Wyon,  chief  engravers  of  Her  Majesty’s  seals,  &c. 

The  text  of  the  “Documentary  History  of  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States”  is 
printed,  with  line  borders  and  wide  margins,  on  fine  paper,  quarto,  while  the  217  designs  for  a flag 
are  full-page  illustrations,  correctly  drawn  and  painted  by  hand  in  water-colors,  some,  when 
required,  being  heightened  with  gold. 


* 


DOCUMENTARY  HISTORY 

OF 

THE  FLAG  AND  SEAL 


OF  THE 


CONFEDERATE  STATES  OF  AMERICA, 

1861-’65, 


COMPILED  BY 


RAPHAEL  P.  THIAN, 

CHIEF  CLERK  ADJUTANT  GENERAL'S  OFFICE. 


APPENDIX PARTS  I— III. 


WASHINGTON: 
1 8 8 0. 


EXTRACTS 


FROM  THE 


kurnals  0f  tjie  Confederate  Congresses 


ON  LEGISLATION  AFFECTING 


THE  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


APPENDIX IP  A_IR,T  X. 


CONFEDERATE  FLAG  AND  SEAL 


PROVISIONAL  CONGRESS. 

FIRST  SESSION. 


Saturday,  February  9,  1861. 

On  the  call  of  the  different  States, 

Mr.  Memminger  (S.  C.)  presented  to  the  Congress,  from  the  ladies  of  South 
Carolina,  a model  for  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America ; also  another 
model  from  a gentleman  of  the  city  of  Charleston,  and  accompanied  the  presentation 
of  the  same  with  appropriate  and  explanatory  remarks. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  moved  that  a committee,  consisting  of  one  from  each  State, 
be  appointed  to  take  into  consideration  the  adoption  of  a Flag  and  Seal  for  the  Con- 
federate States  of  America ; which  was  agreed  to,  and  the  following  committee 
appointed : 

From  Alabama Mr.  Shorter.  ' 

From  Florida Mr.  Morton. 

From  Georgia Mr.  Bartow. 

From  Louisiana Mr.  Sparrow. 

From  Mississippi Mr.  Hamilton. 

From  South  Carolina Mr.  Miles. 


Monday,  February  11.  1861. 

The  Chair  laid  before  the  Congress  a communication  from •,  relative 

to  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States  of  America;  which  was  referred  to  the  select  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  February  12,  1861. 

Mr.  Thomas  R.  R.  Cobb  (Ga.)  presented  designs  for  Flag,  Seal,  and  Coat  of  Arms 
for  the  Confederate  States  of  America,  forwarded  by  Edwin  D.  Sharp,  of  Augusta.  Ga.; 
which  were  referred  to  the  select  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  February  13,  1861. 

Mr.  Stephens  (Ga. ) presented  a communication  on  the  subject  of  a Flag  and  Seal 
for  the  Confederate  States  of  America;  also  models  for  a Flag  and  Seal  of  State; 
which  were  referred  to  the  select  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


2 CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Mr.  Brooke  (Miss.)  offered  the  following  resolution: 

Resolved,  That  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy  be 
instructed  to  adopt  and  report  a Flag  as  similar  as  possible  to  the  Flag  of  the  United 
States,  making  only  such  changes  as  may  be  necessary  to  distinguish  easily  the  one 
from  the  other,  and  to  adapt  the  former  in  the  arrangement  of  its  stars  and  stripes  to 
the  number  of  States  in  this  Confederacy. 

After  some  discussion  had  thereon, 

Mr.  Brooke  (Miss.)  withdrew  the  same  for  the  present. 

Thursday,  February  14,  1861. 

Mr.  Boyce  (S.  C.)  presented  to  Congress  two  models  for  a Flag,  and  laid  before 
Congress  a communication  from  Mrs.  C.  Ladd  in  relation  to  a Flag;  which  were 
referred  to  the  select  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

[Mr.  Boyce  said  : Mr.  President,  I rise  for  the  purpose  of  presenting  to  the  Con- 
gress, with  the  view  of  reference  to  the  appropriate  committee,  two  models  for  the 
Flag  of  our  Confederacy.  One  of  them  has  been  sent  to  me  by  a gentleman  of 
Columbia,  S.  C.,  the  beautiful  capital  of  my  State — the  seat  of  refinement  and  intelli- 
gence— where  the  Southern  heart  beats  as  ardently  as  at  any  spot  within  our  limits. 
The  other  is  sent  to  me  by  a lady  with  whom  I am  well  acquainted — a neighbor  of 
mine,  who  resides  in  the  picturesque  town  of  Winnsborough,  Fairfield  District,  S.  C. 
She  is  a lady  of  remarkable,  intelligence,  whose  path  through  life  has  been  illustrated 
by  all  those  virtues  which  adorn  the  female  character.  1 will  take  the  liberty  of  read- 
ing her  letter  to  the  Congress.  It  is  full  of  authentic  fire.  It  is  worthy  of  Rome  in 
its  best  days,  and  might  well  have  been  read  in  the  Roman  Senate  on  that  disastrous 
day  when  the  victorious  banner  of  the  great  Carthagenian  was  visible  from  Mount 
Aventine ; and  I may  add,  sir.  that  as  long  as  our  women  are  impelled  by  these 
sublime  sentiments,  and  our  mountains  yield  the  metals  out  of  which  weapons  are 
forged,  the  lustrous  stars  of  our  unyielding  Confederacy  will  never  pale  their  glorious 
fires,  though  baffled  oppression  may  threaten  with  its  impotent  sword,  or.  more  dan- 
gerous still,  seek  to  beguile  with  the  siren  song  of  conciliation.] 

Mr.  Stephens  (Ga. ) presented  to  Congress  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Walker  (Ala.)  presented  two  models  for  a Flag : which  were  also  referred  to 
the  appropriate  committee. 

Mr.  Toombs  (Ga.)  presented  to  Congress  a model  for  a Flag,  accompanied  with  a 
communication  from  Joseph  M.  Spelman  ; which  were  referred  to  the  select  Committee 
on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  February  15,  1861. 

Mr.  Stephens  (Ga. ) presented  to  Congress  a design  for  a Seal  for  the  Confederacy, 
together  with  a communication  from  a citizen  of  Richmond  County,  Ga.;  which  were 
referred  to  the  select  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


3 


Mr.  Smith  (Ala.)  presented  to  Congress,  from  a gentleman  of  Mobile,  a design 
for  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy:  which  was  referred  to  the  select  Committee  on  the 
Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  February  16,  1861. 

Designs  for  Flags  were  presented  by  Messrs.  Bartow  (Ga.),  Cobb  (Ga.),  De  Clouet 
(La.),  and  Memminger  (S.  C.),  and  were  severally  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag 
and  Seal. 


Wednesday,  February  20,  1861. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Miles  (S.  C. ),  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Con- 
federacy was  authorized  to  employ  a draftsman. 

Friday,  February  22,  1861. 

Mr.  Hale  (Ala.)  laid  before  Congress  a communication  relative  to  a Flag  for  the 
Confederate  States,  together  with  designs  for  a Flag  from  H.  A.  Pond;  which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  February  26.  1861. 

Mr.  Hale  (Ala.)  presented  to  Congress  a communication  and  design  fora  Flag: 
which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Curry  (Ala.)  laid  before  Congress  two  communications  relative  to  a Flag; 
which  were  referred  to  the  appropriate  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Hill  (Ga.)  presented  to  Congress  a design  for  a Flag:  which  was  also  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  February  27,  1861. 

Mr.  Wright  (Ga. ) also  presented  a model  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  February  28,  1861. 

Mr.  Curry  (Ala.)  also  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Hill  (Ga.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  March  4,  1861. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  also  presented  to  Congress  a communication  from  Misses 
Rebecca  C.  Ferguson  and  Mollie  A.  D.  Sinclair,  pupils  of  the  Tushogee  Female 
College,  together  with  drawings  as  designs  for  a Flag:  which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


4 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Mr.  Hill  (Ga.)  laid  before  Congress  a communication  from  a lady  of  Darien,  Ga., 
relative  to  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  appropriate  Committee  on  the  Flag  and 
Seal. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy, 
made  the  following  report : 

The  committee  appointed  to  select  a proper  Flag  for  the  Confederate  States  of 
America  beg  leave  to  report — 

That  they  have  given  this  subject  due  consideration,  and  carefully  inspected  all 
the  designs  and  models  submitted  to  them.  The  number  of  these  has  been  immense, 
but  they  all  may  be  divided  into  two  great  classes — 

First.  Those  which  copy  and  preserve  the  principal  features  of  the  United  States 
Flag  with  slight  and  unimportant  modifications. 

Secondly.  Those  which  are  very  elaborate,  complicated,  or  fantastical. 

The  objection  to  the  first  class  is  that  none  of  them  at  any  considerable  distance 
could  readily  be  distinguished  from  the  one  which  they  imitate.  Whatever  attachment 
may  be  felt,  from  association,  for  the  “Stars  and  Stripes”  (an  attachment  which  your 
committee  may  be  permitted  to  say  they  do  not  all  share),  it  is  manifest  that,  in 
inaugurating  a new  Government,  we  cannot,  with  any  propriety  or  without  encounter- 
ing obvious  difficulties,  retain  the  Flag  of  the  Government  from  which  we  have  with- 
drawn. There  is  no  propriety  in  retaining  the  ensign  of  a Government  which,  in  the 
opinion  of  the  States  composing  this  Confederacy,  had  been  so  oppressive  and  injurious 
to  their  interests  as  to  require  their  separation  from  it.  It  is  idle  to  talk  of  keeping 
the  Flag  of  the  United  States  when  we  have  voluntarily  seceded  from  them.  It  is 
superfluous  to  dwell  upon  the  practical  difficulties  which  would  flow  from  the  fact  of 
two  distinct,  and  probably  hostile,  Governments,  both  employing  the  same,  or  very 
similar  Flags.  It  would  be  a political  and  military  solecism.  As  to  the  “glories  of 
the  old  Flag,”  we  must  bear  in  mind  that  the  battles  of  the  Revolution,  about  which  our 
fondest  and  proudest  memories  cluster,  were  not  fought  beneath  its  folds  ; and  although 
in  more  recent  times — in  the  war  of  1812  and  in  the  war  with  Mexico — the  South  did 
win  her  fair  share  of  glory  and  shed  her  full  measure  of  blood  under  its  guidance  and 
in  its  defense,  we  think  the  impartial  page  of  history  will  preserve  and  commemorate 
the  fact  more  imperishably  than  a mere  piece  of  striped  bunting.  When  the  colonies 
achieved  their  independence  of  the  “ mother  country  ” (which  up  to  the  last  they  fondly 
called  her),  they  did  not  desire  to  retain  the  British  Flag,  or  any  thing  at  all  similar  to  it ; 
yet  under  that  Flag  they  had  been  planted  and  nurtured  and  fostered.  Under  that 
Flag  they  had  fought  in  their  infancy  for  their  very  existence  against  more  than  one 
determined  foe;  under  it  they  had  repelled  and  driven  back  the  relentless  savage. 
They  had  carried  it  farther  and  farther  into  the  decreasing  wilderness  as  the  standard 
of  civilization  and  religion.  Under  it  the  youthful  Washington  won  his  spurs  in  the 
memorable  and  unfortunate  expedition  of  Braddock,  and  Americans  helped  to  plant  it 
on  the  heights  of  Abraham,  where  the  immortal  Wolfe  fell,  covered  with  glory,  in  the 
arms  of  victory.  But  our  forefathers,  when  they  separated  themselves  from  *Great 
Britain — a separation  not  on  account  of  their  hatred  of  the  English  Constitution  or  of 
English  institutions,  but  in  consequence  of  the  tyrannical  and  unconstitutional  rule  of 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  5 

Lord  North’s  administration,  and  because  their  destiny  beckoned  them  on  to  inde- 
pendent expansion  and  achievement — cast  no  lingering,  regretful  looks  behind.  They 
were  proud  of  their  race  and  lineage ; proud  of  their  heritage  in  the  glories  and  genius 
and  language  of  old  England,  but  they  were  influenced  by  the  spirit  of  the  motto  of 
the  great  Hampden— “ Vestigia  nulla  retrorsum."  They  were  determined  to  build  up 
a new  power  among  the  nations  of  the  world.  They,  therefore,  did  not  attempt  “to 
keep  the  old  Flag.”  We  think  it  good  to  imitate  them  in  this  comparatively  little 
matter,  as  well  as  to  emulate  them  in  greater  and  more  important  ones. 

The  committee,  in  examining  the  representations  of  the  Flags  of  all  countries,  found 
that  Liberia  and  the  Sandwich  Islands  had  Flags  so  similar  to  that  of  the  United  States 
that  it  seemed  to  them  an  additional,  if  not  in  itself  a conclusive,  reason  why  we  should 
not  “keep,”  copy,  or  imitate  it.  They  felt  no  inclination  to  borrow  at  second  hand 
what  had  been  pilfered  and  appropriated  by  a free-negro  community  and  a race  of 
savages.  It  must  be  admitted,  however,  that  something  was  conceded  by  the  com- 
mittee to  what  seemed  so  strong  and  earnest  a desire  to  retain  at  least  a suggestion  of 
the  old  “Stars  and  Stripes.”  So  much  for  the  mass  of  models  and  designs  more  or 
less  copied  from  or  assimilated  to  the  United  States  Flag. 

With  reference  to  the  second  class  of  designs — those  of  an  elaborate  and  compli- 
cated character,  but  many  of  them  showing  considerable  artistic  skill  and  taste — the 
committee  will  merely  remark  that,  however  pretty  they  may  be  when  made  up  by  the 
cunning  skill  of  a fair  lady’s  fingers,  in  silk,  satin,  and  embroidery,  they  are  not  appro- 
priate as  Flags.  A Flag  should  be  simple,  readily  made,  and,  above  all,  capable  of 
being  made  up  in  bunting.  It  should  be  different  from  the  Flag  of  any  other  country, 
place,  or  people.  It  should  be  significant.  It  should  be  readily  distinguished  at  a 
distance.  The  colors  should  be  well  contrasted  and  durable,  and,  lastly,  and  not  the 
least  important  point,  it  should  be  effective  and  handsome. 

The  committee  humbly  think  that  the  Flag  which  they  submit  combines  these 
requisites.  It  is  very  easy  to  make.  It  is  entirely  different  from  any  national  Flag. 
The  three  colors  of  which  it  is  composed — red,  white,  and  blue — are  the  true  repub- 
lican colors.  In  heraldry,  they  are  emblematic  of  the  three  great  virtues — valor, 
purity,  and  truth.  Naval  men  assure  us  that  it  can  be  distinguished  and  recognized  at 
a great  distance.  The  colors  contrast  admirably  and  are  lasting.  In  effect  and  in 
appearance  it  must  speak,  for  itself. 

Your  committee,  therefore,  recommend  that  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America  shall  consist  of  a red  field,  with  a white  space  extending  horizontally  through 
the  centre,  and  equal  in  width  to  one-third  the  width  of  the  Flag;  the  red  spaces, 
above  and  below,  to  be  of  the  same  width  as  the  white;  the  Union  blue  extending 
down  through  the  white  space  and  stopping  at  the  lower  red  space  ; in  the  centre  of 
the  Union  a circle  of  white  stars  corresponding  in  number  with  the  States  in  the  Con- 
federacy. [See  Plate  I.]  If  adopted,  long  may  it  wave  over  a brave,  a free,  and  a 
virtuous  people.  May  the  career  of  the  Confederacy,  whose  duty  it  will  then  be  to 
support  and  defend  it,  be  such  as  to  endear  it  to  our  children’s  children  as  the  Flag  of 
a loved,  because  a just  and  benign,  Government,  and  the  cherished  symbol  of  its  valor, 
purity,  and  truth. 

Respectfully  submitted.  WM.  PORCHER  MILES, 

Chairman. 


6 CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Mr.  Withers  (S.  C.)  moved  that  the  whole  of  the  report  from  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal  be  entered  upon  the  journal. 

It  was  so  ordered. 

Thursday,  March  7,  1861. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  offered  the  following  resolution  ; which  was  agreed  to,  viz: 

Resolved,  That  all  models  and  designs  for  a Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  which 
have  been  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  be  placed  in  the  eustod}'  of 
the  Clerk  of  Congress,  who  shall  return  them  to  the  several  authors  or  contributors,  at 
their  own  expense,  whenever  they  shall  apply  for  the  same. 


SECOND  SESSION. 


Friday,  May  3,  1861. 

Mr.  Ochiltree  (Tex.)  presented  a communication  from  L.  B.  Collins,  together  with 
a design  for  a Seal  of  the  Confederate  States;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  May  21,  1861. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  offered  a resolution  in  reference  to  a Congressional  Seal ; which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


THIRD  SESSION. 


Wednesday,  August  28,  1861. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  offered  the  following  resolution;  which  was  read  and  agreed  to, 

viz: 

Resolved , That  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  be  instructed  to  inquire  into 
the  expediency  of  so  changing  the  Confederate  Flag  as  to  make  it  more  distinctive  and 
more  easily  distinguished  from  the  Flag  of  the  United  States. 


EIETH  SESSION. 


Monday,  December  9,  1861. 

The  Chair  presented  a communication  relative  to  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy  ; 
which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  without  being  read. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  7 

Saturday,  December  14,  1861. 

The  Chair  presented  a communication  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy  ; 
which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  without  being  read. 

Tuesday,  December  31,  1861. 

Mr.  McFarland  (Va. ) presented  a communication  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the 
Confederacy;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  without 
being  read. 

Thursday,  January  2,  1862. 

Mr.  Tyler  (Va. ) presented  * * *;  also  a communication  on  the  Flag  of 

the  Confederacy ; which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  January  16,  1862. 

Mr.  McFarland  (Va. ) presented  several  designs  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederacy; 
which,  together  with  a letter  from  the  artist,  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the 
Flag  and  Seal,  with  the  privilege  of  withdrawing  the  same  if  not  used. 

Wednesday,  January  29,  1862. 

Mr.  Morton  (Fla.)  moved  that  the  President  be  authorized  to  appoint  three  addi- 
tional members  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  motion  was  agreed  to. 

And 

The  Chair  announced  the  following  as  the  additional  members  of  that  committee, 
viz:  Messrs.  Boteler  (Va. ),  Curry  (Ala.),  and  Jones  (Tenn.). 

Thursday,  January  30,  1862. 

Mr.  Johnson  (Ark.)  presented  a communication  on  the  subject  of  a Flag;  which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  without  being  read. 

Friday,  January  31,  1862. 

Mr.  Perkins  (La.)  presented  two  designs  for  a Flag;  which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal;  also  the  following  resolution,  which  was  read  and 
agreed  to,  viz : 

Resolved , That  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy  be  instructed 
to  inquire  into  the  propriety  of  so  changing  the  Confederate  Flag  as  to  make  it  more 
easy  to  be  distinguished  from  that  of  the  United  States. 

Mr.  Harris  (Miss.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


8 CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Mr.  McFarland  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  February  1,  1862. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  February  3,  1862. 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  February  5,  1862. 

Mr.  McFarland  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  presented  two  designs  for  a Flag;  which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  aud  Seal. 

Saturday,  February  8,  1862. 

Congress  being  in  secret  session, 

The  Chair  presented  a design  for  a Flag ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  February  10,  1862. 

Mr.  McFarland  (Va.),  by  unanimous  consent,  presented  a design  for  a Flag; 
which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday',  February  11,  1862. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Morton  (Fla.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  made  a report, 
accompanied  by  their  design  for  a Flag ; which  was  read  and  laid  upon  the  table  for 
the  present. 

[The  Committee,  &c.,  beg  leave  to  report: 

The  present  Flag  is  unsuitable,  for  many  reasons  ; but  it  is  only  necessary  to  men- 
tion the  following  as  a controlling  consideration  why  it  should  not  outlast  the  Provisional 
Government  for  which  it  was  intended  : it  closely  resembles  the  flag  of  the  enemy,  and 
experience  has  proved  that  it.  cannot  be  used  in  battle  without  the  liability  of  leading 
our  men  into  confusion  and  disaster. 

Many  plans  and  designs  for  Flags  were  presented  to  the  committee.  From  these 
the  committee  have  selected  the  three  which,  in  their  judgment,  best  fulfill  the  condi- 
tions required  by  the  Confederacy  for  the  emblem  of.  its  sovereignty.  They  submit 
them  to  Congress  for  the  final  choice. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  9 

The  committee,  however,  are  decided  in  their  preference.  They  are  unanimous  in 
recommending  as  the  most  suitable  and  appropriate  among  them  all  the  Flag  with  four 
stars  on  a blue  Union  with  a red  fly.  [See  Plate  II.] 

It  cannot  be  mistaken  for  the  flag  of  any  other  nation.  It  is  as  distinguishable  in 
the  calm  as  in  the  breeze,  and  it  is  pleasant  to  the  eye.  No  idea  connected  with  it  is 
borrowed  from  the  old  flag,  and  there  is  nothing  in  it  to  remind  the  people  of  the 
tyranny  and  oppression  of  which  that  has  become  the  emblem.  On  the  contrary,  it 
proclaims  to  the  world,  in  the  full  powers  of  its  mute  eloquence,  that  our  separation 
from  our  some-time  brethren  of  the  North  is  complete  and  eternal.  But  there  are 
other  qualities  which  this  emblem  of  nationality  possesses  also,  and  which  are  greatly 
to  be  desired.  The  national  emblem  of  a people,  such  as  are  the  Southern  people, 
should  be  suggestive.  The  associations  which  it  calls  forth  -should  be  inspiring  and 
poetical.  With  its  signs  and  its  symbols  it  should  please  the  fancy,  awaken  the  imagi- 
nation, and  stir  the  heart  with  noble  aspirations.  This  is  accomplished  by  these  four 
stars  and  their  simple  arrangement.  They  are  to  this  Flag  what  the  device  of  the 
painter  is  to  the  picture.  They  are  taken  from  the  constellation  of  the  Southern  cross. 
To  the  youth  of  the  land,  to  the  soldiers  and  sailors  in  battle,  they  suggest  for  motto 
the  pregnant  words  “ ad  astra." 

Of  all  the  constellations  in  the  sky,  that  of  the  Southern  cross,  with  its  surround- 
ings, is  the  most  striking  and  beautiful.  To  emblazon  its  four  principal  stars  on  our 
flag  would  indicate  the  desire  of  the  popular  heart  that  the  true  glory  of  this  young 
Republic  shall  be  to  the  glory  of  other  nations  what  the  glory  of  this  constellation  is  to 
the  glory  of  other  stars ; that  our  backs  are  turned  to  the  North  and  our  faces  to  the 
South ; that  we  aspire  ; that  we  look  up,  and  that  our  march  is  upwards  and  onward ; 
that  our  wise  and  good  men  watch — expecting  the  star  of  our  destiny  to  culminate  in 
the  South  and  not  the  North. 

The  constellation  of  the  Southern  cross,  almost  more  than  any  other,  may  be  said 
to  be  peculiarly  an  American  constellation.  Its  discovery  was  consequent  upon  the 
discovery  of  America.  No  people  have  adopted  it  as  their  national  emblem.  It  is 
unique,  and  in  appropriating  it  we  borrow  nothing.  In  setting  its  stars  on  our  national 
banner  it  is  not  proposed  to  represent  it  on  the  meridian  at  the  moment  of  culmination, 
nor  to  picture  it  as  it  declines,  but  to  take  it  rising,  when  its  point  and  period  of  greatest 
height  are  distant  and  remote,  but  certain  and  sure — thus  indicating  our  trust  that  the 
national  career  be  ever  onward,  ever  upward,  and  ever  glorious ; ever  attracting  the 
gaze  and  admiration  of  all  who  come  under  the  folds  of  this  Flag. 

JACKSON  MORTON. 

J.  T.  HARRISON. 

THOS.  M.  JONES. 

A.  R.  BOTELER. 

J.  L.  M.  CURRY.] 


10  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Friday,  February  14,  1862. 

Mr.  Rhett  (S.  C.)  moved  that  Congress  proceed  to  the  consideration  of  the  report 
of  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  motion  was  agreed  to. 

When 

Mr.  Morton  (Fla.)  offered  the  following  resolution,  to  wit: 

Resolved,  That  it  is  proper  that  the  decision  of  a Flag  for  the  Permanent  Govern- 
ment be  left  to  the  Congress,  under  that  Government,  about  to  assemble. 

And  the  question  being  upon  agreeing  to  the  same, 

Mr.  Morton  (Fla.),  at  the  instance  of  the  State  of  Florida,  demanded  that  the 
yeas  and  nays  of  the  whole  body  be  recorded  thereon,  which  are  as  follows,  to  wit : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Chilton,  Hale,  and  McRae,  of  Alabama;  Thomasson,  Garland, 
and  Watkins,  of  Arkansas;  Morton  and  Owens,  of  Florida;  Toombs,  Foreman,  Hill, 
A.  R.  Wright,  and  Stephens,  of  Georgia;  Monroe,  Elliott,  and  Ewing,  of  Kentucky; 
De  Clouet,  Conrad,  and  Marshall,  of  Louisiana;  Peyton,  Harris,  Conrow,  Freeman, 
and  Bell,  of  Missouri ; Davis,  Avery,  Tenable,  Morehead,  and  Davidson,  of  North 
Carolina;  Barnwell  and  Memminger,  of  South  Carolina  ; Currin,  of  Tennessee  ; Waul, 
of  Texas  ; McFarland,  of  Virginia — 34. 

Nays — Messrs.  Curry,  of  Alabama;  Johnson,  of  Arkansas;  Kenan,  of  Georgia; 
Thomas  and  White,  of  Kentucky ; Perkins  and  Kenner,  of  Louisiana ; Brooke  and 
Bradford,  of  Mississippi ; Clark,  of  Missouri ; Ruffin,  of  North  Carolina  ; Rhett  and 
Boyce,  of  South  Carolina  ; Wigfall,  Oldham,  and  Ochiltree,  of  Texas  ; Seddon,  Pryor, 
Scott,  Brockenbrough,  Russell,  and  Johnson,  of  Virginia — 22. 

Yeas — Alabama,  Arkansas,  Florida,  Georgia,  Kentucky,  Louisiana,  Missouri, 
North  Carolina,  and  Tennessee — 9. 

Nays — Mississippi,  Texas,  and  Virginia — 3. 

Divided — South  Carolina — 1 . 

. So  the  resolution  was  adopted. 


FIRST  CONGRESS. 

FIRST  SESSION. 


Wednesday,  February  19,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  offered  the  following  resolution;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  Rules,  viz  : 

Resolved,  That  the  Speaker  appoint  the  following  standing  committees:  * * *■ 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy. 

Monday,  February  24,  1862. 

Home  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Curry  (Ala.),  from  the  Committee  on  Rules,  offered  the  following  resolution  ; 
which  was  agreed  to,  viz : 

Resolved , That  the  Speaker  appoint  the  following  committees,  to  act  with  like  com- 
mittees to  be  appointed  on  the  part  of  the  Senate,  viz  : * ' * * ; Committee  on 

the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy,  to  consist  of  three  members  of  this  House. 

Tuesday,  February  25,  1862. 

* 

Senate. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.), 

Ordered , That  the  President  appoint  the  committees  on  the  part  of  the  Senate 
under  the  resolution  this  day  adopted  providing  for  the  appointment  of  the  joint  com- 
mittees on  * * * ; the  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy.  * 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  Mr.  Preston  (Va.),  and  Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.),  as  the  third  committee. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  Chair  announced  the  following  standing  committees : 

■3fr  t€-  -X1  ■X"  ■Jfr  -X- 

Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. — Messrs.  Boteler  (Va.),  \V.  R.  Smith  (Ala.),  and 
Gray  (Tex.). 

Mr.  Gardenhier  (Tenn.)  presented  a communication  from  certain  ladies  of  the 
State  of  Tennessee,  in  relation  to  a Flag;  which  was  read  and  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


12  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Tuesday,  March  11,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Hanly  (Ark.)  introduced  * * * ; also,  a resolution  instructing  the  Com- 

mittee on  the  Judiciary  to  report  a bill  punishing  counterfeiters  of  the  Great  Seal  of 
the  Confederate  States ; which  was  read  and  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Hilton  (Fla.)  presented  a design  for  the  Confederate  Flag,  from  Mr.  Ben.  A. 
Donald,  of  Virginia;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  March  12,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Barksdale  (Miss.)  presented  a communication  containing  a design  for  a Flag; 
which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  without  being  read. 

Friday,  March  14,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.)  presented  several  devices  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States, 
designed  by  Mrs.  C.  C.  Clay,  of  Alabama;  which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  March  15,  1862. 

Mr.  Munnerlynn  (Ga.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag,  from  Lieutenant  Colonel 
Matthews,  of  the  4th  Georgia  regiment;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the 
Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Swan  (Tenn.)  presented  two  designs  for  a Flag,  from  Mr.  W.  T.  Dick,  of  New 
Market,  Tenn.;  which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  March  19,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Holt  (Ga.)  presented  a letter  and  two  designs  for  a Flag,  from  Mrs.  Sarah 
Thomas  Chandler,  of  Geneva,  in  the  State  of  Georgia ; which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  March  21,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.)  presented  several  devices  for  a Confederate  States  Flag,  designed 
by  J.  H.  H.,  of  South  Carolina;  which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag 
and  Seal. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chambliss  (Va.)  presented  a letter  and  design  for  a Flag;  which  were  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  13 


Mr.  Baldwin  (Ya. ) presented  * * * ; also,  a communication  and  design  for  a 

Flag  from  J.  De  Haviland ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  March  22,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Preston  (Ya.)  presented  a device  for  the  Flag  and  Arms  of  the  Confederate 
States  of  America,  designed  by  John  De  Haviland,  late  an  officer  of  Dragoons,  U.  S.  A., 
and  ex-charge  d’affaires  ad  interim  at  Madrid;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee 
on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  March  27,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.)  presented  two  devices  for  a Confederate  States  Flag;  which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag,  from  N.  W.  Fowler,  of  Mont- 
gomery, Ala.;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  March  28,  1862. 

Senate. 

The  President  laid  before  the  Senate  a device  for  Confederate  States  Flag ; which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  March  31,  1862. 

Senate. 

The  President  laid  before  the  Senate  several  devices  for  a Confederate  States  Flag, 
designed  by  Miss  L.  Augusta  Faust,  of  South  Carolina;  which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Currin  (Tenn.)  presented  three  designs  for  a Flag;  which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  April  5,  1862. 

Senate. 

The  President  pro  tempore  laid  before  the  Senate  various  devices  for  a Flag  for  the 
Confederate  States,  designed  by  M.  Fannie  Whitfield,  of  North  Carolina  ; which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


14  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Foster  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  Aprii.  10,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Swan  (Tenn. ) presented  two  designs  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  Aprii.  12,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Oldham  (Tex.)  presented  a device  for  a Confederate  States  Flag,  designed  by 
Lucien  Hobson  ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  April  15,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boyce  (S.  C.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag  and  Seal,  by  Samuel  A.  Wolfe,  of 
Virginia ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Barksdale  (Miss.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag  and  Seal ; which  was  referred 
to  the  same  committee. 

Saturday,  April  19,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  from  the  Joint  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  submitted  a 
report,  accompanied  by  a joint  resolution  (S.  11)  adopting  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate 
States  of  America. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  reported  a joint 
resolution  adopting  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America;  which  was  read  a 
first  and  second  time. 

Also,  the  following  report,  to  wit: 

To  the  Honorable  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  of  the  Confederate  States : 

The  Joint  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  submit  to  the  judgment  of  Congress  the 
accompanying  design  of  a Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

The  considerations  which  influenced  the  committee  in  selecting  the  proposed 
design  were — 

1st.  Its  want  of  resemblance  to  the  Flag  of  any  other  nation. 

2d.  The  distinctness  of  its  colors,  rendering  it  discernible  at  a distance. 

3d.  Its  simplicity  and  consequent  facility  of  fabrication  for  an  emergency. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  15 

4th.  Its  conformity  to  the  propriety  of  heraldry. 

5th.  Its  symbolization  of  the  characteristics  of  a free  and  prosperous  people. 

Ancient  heralds,  in  their  quaint  language,  would  describe  this  Flag  as:  On  a field 
gules,  saltier  argent,  with  a shield  azure  charged  with  a sun  in  his  glory.  The  red  field 
denotes  martial  prowess,  boldness,  courage,  valor;  the  saltier,  an  honorable  ordinary 
in  heraldry,  emblem  of  progress  and  strength,  its  white  indicating  purity,  innocence, 
and  gentleness.  The  blue  of  the  shield  represents  justice,  faith,  perseverance,  and 
vigilance.  The  sun  manifests  the  dominion,  generosity,  and  stability  of  the  Confed- 
eracy. [See  Plate  III.] 

Nearly  all  the  designs  submitted  to  the  committee  contained  a combination  of 
stars.  This  heraldic  emblem,  however,  has  been  discarded,  as  a manifestation  of  our 
entire  and  absolute  severance  from  the  United  States,  and  a complete  annihilation  of 
every  sentiment  indicating  the  faintest  hope  of  reconstruction. 

Respectfully  submitted. 

THOMAS  J.  SEMMES, 

Chairman  on  the  part  of  the  Senate. 
ALEXANDER  R.  BOTELER, 

Chairman  on  the  part  of  the  House. 

April  19,  1862. 

Mr.  Boyce  (S.  C.)  moved  that  the  House  postpone  the  consideration  of  the  report 
of  the  committee  until  the  first  day  of  the  next  session. 

The  motion  was  lost. 

And  the  joint  resolution  offered  by  the  committee  having  been  read,  as  follows  : 

Resolved  by  the  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America , That  the  Flag  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows,  to  wit:  A red  field  charged  with  a white 
saltier,  having  in  the  centre  a sun  in  its  glory  on  an  azure  field,  the  rays  of  the  sun 
corresponding  with  the  number  of  States  composing  the  Confederacy. 

Mr.  Holt  (Ga.)  moved  to  amend  the  same,  by  inserting  after  the  word  “shall” 
the  words  “after  the  lapse  of  ninety  days  from  the  adoption  of  this  resolution.” 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Trippe  (Ga. ),  the  vote  by  which  the  motion  to  postpone  was 
lost  was  reconsidered  ; and  the  motion  prevailed. 

Monday,  April  21,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

(Secret  Session.) 

Mr.  Clopton  (Ala.),  from  the  Committee  on  Claims,  reported  the  following  resolu- 
tion : which  was  read  and  agreed  to,  viz  : 

Resolved,  That  the  Clerk  of  the  House  of  Representatives  is  directed  to  pay,  out 
of  the  contingent  fund,  the  bills  of  R.  McDonald  and  George  Ruskell,  for  specimen 
flags  furnished  by  order  of  the  Provisional  and  Permanent  Congresses.” 


16  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

SECOND  SESSION. 


Friday,  September  5,  1862. 

Senate. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Ordered , That  the  report  of  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  submitted  on 
the  19th  of  April  last,  be  recommitted  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.)  offered  the  following;  which  was  read  and  agreed  to,  viz : 

That  the  resolution  and  accompanying  report  in  reference  to  a Confederate  Flag, 
which  were  submitted  from  the  Joint  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  at  the  last  session 
of  Congress,  be  withdrawn  from  the  files  of  this  House  and  recommitted  to  the  joint 
committee. 

Monday,  September  8,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Yancy  (Ala.)  presented  a device  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States ; which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Orr  (S.  C.)  presented  two  devices  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States, 
designed  by  Mr.  Holmes,  of  South  Carolina ; which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Lyon  (Ala.),  by  consent,  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  September  15,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chrisman  (Ky. ) presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag,  from  S.  M.  Wilson 
of  Georgia ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Gartrell  (Ga.),  by  consent,  offered  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag,  from  S. 
Root,  of  Georgia;  which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  September  22,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chambliss  (Va. ) presented  sundry  designs  for  a Confederate  Flag ; which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  presented  a design  fora  Confederate  Seal;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  17 

Wednesday,  September  24,  1862. 

Senate. 

Mr. 'Semmes  (La.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  reported  a bill 
(S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States;  which  was  read  a first  and 
second  time  and  considered  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole. 

And,  no  amendment  being  proposed,  the  bill  was  reported  to  the  Senate. 

Ordered,  That  it  be  engrossed  and  read  a third  time. 

The  said  bill  was  read  the  third  time. 

Resolved,  That  it  pass,  and  that  the  title  thereof  be  as  aforesaid. 

Ordered , That  the  Secretary  request  the  concurrence  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives therein. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  that  the  vote  on  the  passage  of  the  bill  (S.  102) 
last  mentioned  be  reconsidered, 

After  debate, 

Mr.  Sparrow  (La.)  demanded  the  question;  which  was  seconded. 

And  the  question  being  put,  it  was  determined  in  the  negative. 

So  the  Senate  refused  to  reconsider  the  vote  on  the  passage  of  the  bill. 
****** 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.)  submitted  the  following  resolution;  which  was  considered  and 
agreed  to,  viz : 

Resolved,  That  the  sum  of  sixty  dollars  be  paid  out  of  the  contingent  fund  of  the 
Senate  to  Julius  Baumgarten,  for  services  rendered  the  Joint  Committee  on  the  Flag 
and  Seal  in  making  drawings  of  Seals. 

Thursday,  September  25,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  Chair  presented  * * * ; also  Senate  bill  establishing  the  Seal  of  the 

Confederate  States  of  America ; which  was  read  a first  and  second  time  and  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  October  1,  1862. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chambliss  (Va.),  by  consent,  presented  a design  for  a Flag:  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  October  11.  1862. 

Senate. 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald : 

Mr.  President:  The  House  of  Representatives  * * * have  also  passed 

bill  of  the  Senate  (S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America, 
with  an  amendment,  in  which  they  request  the  concurrence  of  the  Senate. 


18  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  by  consent,  to  whom  was  referred  a bill  of  the  Senate  estab- 
lishing the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America,  reported  the  same  back,  with 
the  recommendation  that  it  pass,  with  an  amendment. 

The  bill  having  been  read,  as  follows,  to  wit : 

The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact,  That  the  device  on 
the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  shall  be:  In  the  foreground,  a Confederate  soldier 
in  the  position  of  charge  bayonet ; in  the  middle  distance,  a woman  with  a child  by  her 
side,  in  front  of  a church,  both  with  hands  uplifted  in  the  attitude  of  prayer ; for  a 
background,  a homestead  on  the  plain,  with  mountains  in  the  distance  beneath 
the  meridian  sun — the  whole  surrounded  by  a wreath  composed  of  the  stalk  of  the 
sugar-cane,  the  rice,  the  cotton,  and  tobacco  plants ; the  margin  inscribed  with  the 
words  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  above,  and  the  motto  Our 
Homes  and  our  Constitutions  beneath.  [See  Plate  IV.] 

The  committee  moved  to  amend  by  striking  out  all  after  the  enacting  clause,  and 
inserting,  in  lieu  thereof,  the  following,  to  wit: 

That  the  device  on  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  shall  be  an  armed  youth,  in 
classic  costume,  standing  beneath  a meridian  sun  by  the  side  of  an  altar  to  which  a 
woman  is  clinging — the  whole  surrounded  by  a wreath  composed  of  sugar-cane,  rice, 
cotton,  and  tobacco  plants,  and  the  margin  inscribed  with  the  words  Seal  of  the 
Confederate  States  of  America  above,  and  the  motto  pro  aris  et  focis  beneath. 
[See  Plate  V.] 

The  question  being  on  the  amendment  of  the  bill  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Con- 
federate States  of  America, 

Mr.  Welsh  (Miss.)  moved  to  lay  the  same  on  the  table. 

The  motion  was  lost. 

Mr.  Russell  (Va.)  demanded  the  question  ; which  was  ordered. 

And  the  amendment  was  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  moved  that  the  further  consideration  of  the  bill  be  postponed 
until  the  next  session. 

Mr.  Swan  (Tenn.)  moved  a call  of  the  House;  which  was  ordered. 

****** 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Holt  (Ga. ),  all  further  proceedings  under  the  call  were  dispensed 
with. 

The  bill  was  then  read  a third  time. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  moved  that  the  bill  be  laid  on  the  table. 

The  motion  was  lost. 

Mr.  Russell  (Va. ) demanded  the  question  ; which  was  ordered. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays. 

The  yeas  and  nays  were  ordered,  and  are  recorded  as  follows,  to  wit : 

Teas — Messrs.  Ashe,  Ayer,  Baldwin,  Batson,  Bell,  Boteler,  Chilton,  Clark,  Clop- 
ton,  De  Jarnette,  Elliott,  Farrow,  Foster,  Freeman,  Garland,  Gartrell,  Goode,  Harris, 
Herbert,  Holt,  Johnson,  Kenan  (N.  C.),  Kenner,  Lyons,  McDowell,  Ralls,  Royston, 
Russell,  Sexton,  Smith  (N.  C.),  Wilcox,  Wright  (Tenn.),  and  the  Speaker — 33. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES— FLAG  AND  SEAL.  19 

Nays — Messrs.  Barksdale,  Bonham,  Bridgers,  Chambers,  Collier,  Dupre,  Foote, 
Gardenhier,  Graham,  Gray,  Hanly,  Hartridge,  Heiskell,  Holcombe,  Jones,  Kenan  (Ga.), 
Lander,  McRae,  McQueen,  Menees,  Miles,  Perkins,  Pugh,  Smith  (Ala.),  Swan,  and 
Welsh — 26. 

So  the  bill  was  passed. 

Monday,  October  13,  1862. 

Senate. 

The  Senate  proceeded  to  consider  the  amendment  of  the  House  of  Representatives 
to  the  bill  (S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Resolved,  That  they  disagree  to  the  said  amendment. 

Ordered,  That  the  Secretary  inform  the  House  of  Representatives  thereof. 

* * * * * * 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald: 

Mr.  President:  The  House  of  Representatives  insist  on  their  amendments  to  the 
bill  of  the  Senate  (S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America; 
ask  a conference  on  the  disagreeing  votes  of  the  two  Houses  thereon,  and  have  appointed 
Mr.  Boteler  (Ya. ),  Mr.  Pugh  (Ala.),  and  Mr.  Harris  (Mo.),  as  managers  of  the  same 
on  their  part. 

****** 

The  Senate  proceeded  to  consider  the  amendments  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives to  the  bill  (S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America, 
insisted  on  by  the  House. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Resolved,  That  the  Senate  insist  on  their  disagreement  to  the  amendments  of  the 
House  of  Representatives  to  the  said  bill,  and  agree  to  the  conference  asked  by  the 
House  on  the  disagreeing  votes  of  the  two  Houses  thereon. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Ordered,  That  the  committee  of  conference  on  the  part  of  the  Senate  be  appointed 
by  the  President  pro  tempore. 

And  Messrs.  Semmes  (La.),  Orr  (S.  C.),  and  Preston  (Va. ) were  appointed. 

Ordered,  That  the  Secretary  inform  the  House  of  Representatives  thereof. 
****** 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  from  the  committee  of  conference  on  the  disagreeing  votes  of 
the  two  Houses  on  the  bill  (S.  102)  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America,  reported  that  they  had  met  the  committee  on  the  part  of  the  House  of  Rep- 
resentatives, and  that  they  were  unable  to  agree. 


20  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Resolved , That  the  Senate  adhere  to  their  disagreement  to  the  amendments  of  the 
House  of  Representatives  to  the  said  bill. 

Ordered , That  the  Secretary  inform  the  House  of  Representatives  thereof. 

****** 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald : 

Mr.  President : * * * The  committee  on  the  part  of  the  House  of  Representa- 

tives have  reported  that,  on  conferring  with  the  committee  on  the  part  of  the  Senate  on 
the  disagreeing  votes  of  the  two  Houses  on  the  bill  (S.  102)  establishing  a Seal  for  the 
Confederate  States  of  America,  they  are  unable  to  agree  with  said  committee. 

House  of  Representatives. 

A message  was  received  from  the  Senate,  by  their  Secretary,  Mr.  Nash,  which  is 
as  follows,  to  wit : 

Mr.  Speaker : The  Senate  have  disagreed  to  the  amendments  proposed  by  the 
House  to  the  bills — - 

****** 

S.  102.  An  act  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

The  Chair  laid  before  the  House  a bill  of  the  Senate  entitled  “An  act  fixing  the 
Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America,”  with  the  amendment  of  the  House,  dis- 
agreed to  by  the  Senate. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  the  House  insisted  on  its  amendment,  and  ten- 
dered a committee  of  conference  on  the  disagreeing  votes  of  the  two  Houses. 

The  Chair  announced  as  managers  on  the  part  of  the  House  at  said  conference 
Messrs.  Boteler  (Va.),  Pugh  (Ala.),  and  Harris  (Mo.). 

Messages  were  received  from  the  Senate  by  their  Secretary,  Mr.  Nash  ; which  are 
as  follows,  to  wit : 

****** 

The  Senate  insist  upon  their  disagreement  to  the  amendment  proposed  by  the 
House  to  the  bill  (S.  102)  entitled  “An  act  establishing  the  Seal  of  Confederate  States 
of  America,”  and  agree  to  the  committee  of  conference  proposed  by  the  House,  and 
have  appointed  Messrs.  Semmes  (La.),  Orr  (S.  C.),  and  Preston  (Va.),  as  managers  on 
their  part  at  said  conference. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  from  the  committee  of  conference  on  the  disagreeing  votes  of 
the  two  Houses  on  a bill  of  the  Senate  entitled  “An  act  to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Con- 
federate States  of  America,”  reported  that  the  committee  on  the  part  of  the  House  had 
met  and  conferred  with  the  committee  on  the  part  of  the  Senate,  and  were  unable  to 
agree. 

A message  was  received  from  the  Senate  by  their  Secretary,  Mr.  Nash,  which  is  as 
follows,  to  wit : 

Mr.  Speaker:  The  Senate  adhere  to  their  disagreement  to  the  amendment  of  this 
House  to  the  bill  (S.  102)  entitled  “An  act  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate 
States  of  America.” 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  21 


THIRD  SESSION. 


Wednesday,  January  14,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Hill  (Ga.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  States  Flag;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday',  January  15,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Baldwin  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Flag  and  Seal;  which  was  referred  to 
the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  January  16,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Clay  (Ala.)  presented  two  designs  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States; 
which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  January  19,  1863. 

Senate. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Ordered , That  the  President  pro  tempore  appoint  a member  to  fill  the  vacancy  in 
the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  occasioned  by  the  death  of  the  Hon.  William 
Ballard  Preston. 

And  Mr.  Wigfall  (Tex.)  was  appointed. 

Wednesday,  January  21,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Clopton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Seal ; which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  January  22,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Dargan  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


22  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Monday.  January  26,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Perkins  (La.),  by  unanimous  consent,  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which 
was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  January  27,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  McDowell  (N.  C.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  January  28,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Sexton  (Tex.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Wright  ( — ) presented  several  designs  for  a Flag  ; which  were  referred  to  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  January  29,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  De  Jarnette  (Fa.)  presented,  by  consent,  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Monday,  February  2,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Yancy  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  States  Flag;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Thursday,  February  5,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Lyons  (Va.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Seal ; which  was  referred  to 
the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Collier  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Seal ; which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Lyons  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Seal ; which  was  referred  to 
the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  23 


Thursday,  February  12,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Clay  (Ala.)  submitted  the  following  resolution;  which  was  considered  and 
agreed  to,  viz : 

Resolved , That  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  be  instructed  to  inquire  into 
the  propriety  of  adopting  a “cavalier”  as  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America,  and  of  taking  as  a model  the  equestrian  statue  of  Washington,  in  Capitol 
Square,  of  this  city,  as  it  appears  from  an  eastern  view. 

Tuesday,  February  24,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag  and  Seal;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  March  14,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chambliss  (Va.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag;  which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  April  4,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Collier  (Va.)  presented  a device  for  a Seal ; which  was  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  April  17,  1863. 

Senate. 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald  : 

Mr.  President : The  House  of  Representatives  have  passed  * * * and 

joint  resolution,  of  the  following  titles,  in  which  they  request  the  concurrence  of  the 
Senate : 

****** 

H.  R,  13.  Joint  resolution  to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States. 
****** 

The  joint  resolution  (H.  R.  13)  to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States  was 
read  a first  and  second  time  and  considered  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Ordered , That  it  lie  on  the  table. 


24  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  reported  a joint 
resolution  to  establish  a Confederate  Seal ; which  was  read  a first  and  second  time. 

The  question  being  on  postponing  and  placing  the  same  upon  the  calendar,  it  was 
decided  in  the  negative. 

The  joint  resolution  having  been  read,  as  follows,  to  wit : 

The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact,  That  the  Seal  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  consist  of  a device  representing  an  equestrian  portrait  of 
Washington  (after  the  statue  which  surmounts  his  monument  in  Capitol  Square,  at 
Richmond),  surrounded  with  a wreath  composed  of  the  principal  agricultural  products 
of  the  South  (cotton,  tobacco,  sugar-cane,  corn,  wheat,  and  rice),  and  having  around 
its  margin  the  words  “Seal  op  the  Confederate  States  of  America,  22d  Feb., 
1862,”  with  the  following  motto:  “ Deo  duce  vincemus.”  [See  Plate  VI.] 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  moved  to  amend  the  same  by  striking  out  the  words  “Deo 
duce  vincemus”  and  inserting  in  lieu  thereof  the  words  “Liberty  and  Inde- 
pendence.” 

Mr.  Gray  (Tex.)  moved  to  amend  the  amendment  by  striking  out  the  whole  of  the 
same,  and  inserting  in  lieu  thereof  the  words  “ Fide  Fortis.” 

On  motion  of  Mr.  McRae  (Ala.), 

The  main  question  was  ordered,  and  the  amendment  to  the  amendment  was  lost. 

The  question  being  on  agreeing  to  the  amendment, 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays. 

The  yeas  and  nays  were  ordered,  and  are  recorded  as  follows,  to  wit : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Arrington,  Baldwin,  Barksdale,  Batson,  Bell,  Bridgers,  Chambers, 
Chambliss,  Clopton,  Conrad,  Crockett,  Davidson,  Farrow,  Foote,  Foster,  Freeman, 
Gaither,  Garland,  Hanly,  Harris,  Hilton,  Jones,  Kenan  (N.  C.),  Machen,  McLean, 
McRae,  Menees,  Moore,  Royston,  Singleton,  Smith  (N.  C. ),  Strickland,  Trippe, 
Wilcox,  Wright  (Ga. ),  Wright  (Tenn.),  and  Wright  (Tex.) — 37. 

Nays — Messrs.  Atkins,  Boteler,  Boyce,  Chilton,  Clapp,  Clark,  Conrow,  Currin, 
Curry,  Dargan,  Davis,  De  Jarnette,  Ewing,  Garnett,  Goode,  Graham,  Gray,  Hartridge, 
Heiskell,  Hodge,  Johnson,  Kenan  (Ga.),  Kenner,  Lewis,  Lyon,  Marshall,  Martin, 
McQueen,  Munnerlyun,  Miller,  Perkins,  Preston,  Pugh,  Ralls,  Read,  Sexton,  Simp- 
son, Smith  (Ala.),  Swan,  Vest,  Villere,  Welsh,  and  the  Speaker — 13. 

So  the  amendment  was  lost. 

The  joint  resolution  was  engrossed,  read  a third  time,  and  passed. 

Monday,  April  20,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Mitchell  (Ark.)  presented  a design  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States; 
which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  25 

Wednesday,  April  22,  1863. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  reported  a hill 
(S.  132)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States ; which  was  read  a first  and 
second  time  and  considered  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole,  and,  no  amendment  being 
made,  it  was  reported  to  the  Senate. 

Ordered , That  it  be  engrossed  and  read  a third  time. 

The  said  bill  was  read  a third  time. 

Resolved , That  it  pass,  and  that  the  title  thereof  be  as  aforesaid. 

Ordered , That  the  Secretary  request  the  concurrence  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives therein. 

House  of  Representatives. 

A message  was  received  from  the  Senate,  by  the  hands  of  Mr.  Nash,  the  Secre- 
tary of  that  body,  which  is  as  follows,  to  wit : 

Mr.  Speaker  : * * * The  Senate  have  passed  bills  of  the  following  titles, 

viz 

****** 

S.  132.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

In  which  I am  directed  to  ask  the  concurrence  of  this  House. 

Thursday,  April  23,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  Chair  laid  before  the  House  the  bill  (S.  132)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Con- 
federate States ; which  was  read  a first  and  second  time  and  referred  to  the  Committee 
on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Saturday,  April  25,  1863. 

Senate. 

The  Senate  proceeded,  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole,  to  the  consideration  of  the 
joint  resolution  (H.  R.  13)  establishing  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.), 

Ordered , That  the  further  consideration  thereof  be  postponed  to,  and  made  the 
special  order  for,  Monday  next  at  12  o’clock. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Trippe  ( Ga. ) presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag ; which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Barksdale  (Miss.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


26  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Monday,  April  27,  1863. 

Senate. 

The  Senate  resumed,  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole,  the  consideration  of  the  joint 
resolution  (H.  R.  13)  to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  to  amend  the  resolution  by  striking  out  the 
words  “ Seal  of,”  line  9,  it  was  determined  in  the  affirmative. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Davis  ( — ),  to  amend  the  resolution  by  striking  out  the  word 
“vincemus,”  line  11,  it  was  determined  in  the  affirmative. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  to  amend  the  resolution  by  striking  out  the  word 
“duce,”  line  11,  and  inserting  the  words  “vindice  majores  ^emulamur,”  it  was 
determined  in  the  negative. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  to  amend  the  resolution  by  striking  out  the 
word  “duce,”  line  11,  and  inserting  “vindice,”  it  was  determined  in  the  affirmative. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Johnson  (Ga.),  to  amend  the  resolution  by  striking  out  the 
word  “South,”  line  7,  and  inserting  “Confederacy,”  it  was  determined  in  the 
affirmative. 

No  further  amendment  being  made, 

The  resolution  was  reported  to  the  Senate,  and  the  amendments  were  concurred  in. 

Ordered , That  the  amendments  be  engrossed  and  the  resolution  read  a third  time. 

The  said  resolution  was  read  the  third  time  as  amended. 

Resolved , That  it  pass  with  amendments. 

Ordered , That  the  Secretary  request  the  concurrence  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives in  the  amendments. 

Tuesday,  April  28,  1863. 

House  of  Representatives. 

A message  was  received  from  the  Senate,  by  Mr.  Nash,  their  Secretary,  which  is 
as  follows,  to  wit : 

Mr.  Speaker  * * * The  Senate  have  passed,  with  amendments,  a 

joint  resolution  of  this  House  of  the  following  title,  viz:  H.  R.  13.  Joint  resolution 
to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States, 

In  which  amendments  I am  directed  to  ask  the  concurrence  of  this  House. 
■*■*■***  * 

The  Speaker  laid  before  the  House  a joint  resolution  of  the  House  to  establish  a 
Seal  for  the  Confederate  States,  which  had  been  amended  by  the  Senate,  as  follows,  to 
wit : 

(1)  Strike  out  the  word  “South,”  and  insert  the  word  “ Confederacy.” 

(2)  Strike  out  the  words  “Seal  of,”  in  line  9. 

(3)  Strike  out,  in  line  11,  the  words  “duce  vincemus,”  and  insert  “vindice.” 

The  question  being  on  suspending  the  rules  requiring  the  joint  resolution,  as 

amended  by  the  Senate,  to  be  referred  to  a committee, 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays;  -which  were  not  ordered. 

The  rules  were  suspended, 

And  the  first  and  second  amendments  of  the  Senate  were  then  agreed  to. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  27 

Mr.  Boyce  (S.  C.)  moved  to  amend  the  third  amendment  of  the  Senate  by  strik- 
ing out  the  words  “Deo  viNDicE,”and  inserting  “ Glory  to  God  in  the  highest  ; on 

EARTH.  PEACE  AND  GOOD-WILL  TOWARDS  MEN.” 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va. ) moved  to  amend  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Boyce  by  striking  out 
the  words  “Deo  vindice,”  and  inserting  “Deo  favente,  animo  fervente;”  which 
was  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn. ) moved  to  amend  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Boyce  by  substituting 
the  words  “Liberty  and  Independence.” 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  demanded  the  previous  question;  which  was  not  ordered. 

Mr.  Heiskell  (Tenn.)  called  the  question  ; which  was  ordered. 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays  ; which  were  not  ordered. 

Mr.  Atkins  (Tenn.)  moved  to  adjourn. 

The  motion  was  disagreed  to. 

The  amendment  of  Mr.  Jones  was  then  disagreed  to. 

Mr.  Garnett  (Va.)  moved  to  amend  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Boyce  by  substituting 
the  words  “Deo  vindice  fide  fortes.” 

Mr.  Heiskell  (Tenn.)  called  the  question  ; which  was  ordered. 

Mr.  Freeman  (Mo.)  moved  to  adjourn;  which  was  disagreed  to. 

Mr.  Singleton  (Miss.)  moved  a call  of  the  House;  which  was  ordered. 

The  roll  was  called,  and  the  following  gentlemen  answered  to  their  names,  to  wit : 

Messrs.  Ashe,  Atkins,  Baldwin,  Batson,  Bell,  Boteler,  Boyce,  Bridgers,  E.  M. 
Bruce,  Chambers,  Chilton,  Clapp,  Clopton,  Collier,  Conrad,  Conrow,  Currin,  Curry, 
Farrow,  Freeman,  Garland,  Garnett,  Graham,  Gray,  Harris,  Heiskell,  Herbert,  Hilton, 
Holcombe,  Holt,  Jones,  Kenan  (N.  C.),  Kenner,  Lewis,  Machen,  Marshall,  Martin, 
McRae,  McQueen,  Menees,  Miles,  Miller,  Moore,  Munnerlynn,  Pugh,  Sexton,  Simpson, 
Singleton,  Smith  (N.  C.),  Swan,  Trippe,  Villere,  Welsh,  Wilcox,  Wright  (Tenn.), 
Wright  (Tex.),  and  the  Speaker. 

Mr.  Curry  (Ala.)  moved  that  all  further  proceedings  under  the  call  of  the  House 
be  dispensed  with ; which  was  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Harris  (Mo.)  moved  that  the  House  adjourn  ; which  was  not  agreed  to. 

The  question  recurring  on  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Garnett,  it  was  decided  in  the 
affirmative. 

Mr.  Heiskell  (Tenn.)  moved  to  lay  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Garnett  on  the  table; 
which  was  agreed  to. 

The  question  recurring  on  agreeing  to  the  Senate  amendment, 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.)  called  the  question;  which  was  ordered,  and  the  amendment  of 
the  Senate  was  concurred  in. 

Thursday,  April  30,  1863. 

Senate. 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald  : 

Mr.  President : The  House  of  Representatives  * * * have  concurred  in  the 
amendments  of  the  Senate  to  the  joint  resolution  (H.  R.  13)  to  establish  a Seal  for  the 
Confederate  States. 

****** 


28  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald: 

Mr.  President : * * * The  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives  having 

signed  sundry  enrolled  bills,  I am  directed  to  bring  them  to  the  Senate  for  the  signa- 
ture of  their  President. 

Mr.  Caperton  (Va. ),  from  the  committee,  reported  that  they  had  examined  and 
found  truly  enrolled  bills  and  a joint  resolution  of  the  following  titles,  viz  : 

****** 

H.  R.  13.  Joint  resolution  to  establish  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States. 

The  President  having  signed  the  enrolled  bills  and  enrolled  joint  resolution  last 
reported  to  have  been  examined,  they  were  delivered  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Senate, 
and  by  him  forthwith  presented  to  the  President  of  the  Confederate  States  for  his 
approval. 

Friday,  May  1,  18(13. 

Senate. 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald  : 

Mr.  President : The  House  of  Representatives  have  passed  Senate  bills  of  the 
following  titles : 

S.  132.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

* * ■ * * * * 

The  first  named  with  an  amendment,  in  which  they  request  the  concurrence  of  the 
Senate. 

* * * * * * 

The  Senate  proceeded  to  consider  the  amendment  of  the  House  of  Representatives 
to  the  bill  (S.  132)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Phelan  (Miss.),  that  the  bill  lie  on  the  table, 

Mr.  Johnson  (Ark.)  demanded  the  question  ; which  was  seconded. 

And  the  question  being  then  put,  it  was  determined  in  the  negative. 

On  the  question  to  concur  in  the  amendment  proposed  by  the  House  of  Repre- 
sentatives to  the  said  bill, 

Mr.  Johnson  (Ark.)  demanded  the  question  ; which  was  seconded. 

And  the  question  being  put,  it  was  determined  in  the  affirmative — yeas,  10  ; nays,  6. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Brown  (Miss.),  the  yeas  and  nays  being  desired  by  one-fifth  of 
the  Senators  present, 

Those  who  voted  in  the  affirmative  are — 

Messrs.  Burnett,  Caperton,  Clark,  Henry,  Hunter,  Johnson  (Ark.),  Maxwell, 
Oldham,  Semmes,  Wigfall — 10. 

Those  who  voted  in  the  negative  are— 

Messrs.  Brown,  Clay,  Davis.  Johnson  (Ga.),  Peyton,  Phelan — 6. 

So  it  was 

Resolved , That  the  Senate  concur  in  the  amendment  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives to  the  said  bill. 

Ordered,  That  the  Secretary  inform  the  House  of  Representatives  thereof. 

****** 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  29 

A message  from  the  House  of  Representatives,  by  Mr.  McDonald : 

Mr.  President  * * * The  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Representatives 

having  signed  sundry  enrolled  bills,  I am  directed  to  bring  them  to  the  Senate  for  the 
signature  of  their  President. 

****** 

Mr.  Maxwell  (Fla.),  from  the  committee,  reported  that  they  had  examined  and 
found  truly  enrolled  bills  of  the  following  titles: 

S.  132.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

****** 

The  President  having  signed  the  enrolled  bills  last  reported  to  have  been  examined, 
they  were  delivered  to  the  Secretary  of  the  Senate,  and  by  him  forthwith  presented  to 
the  President  of  the  Confederate  States  for  his  approval. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.)  moved  to  suspend  the  rules  to  enable  him  to  make  a report  from 
the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  and,  on  his  motion,  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays ; 
which  were  ordered,  and  are  recorded  as  follows,  viz  : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Arrington,  Ashe,  Batson,  Bell,  Boteler,  E.  M.  Bruce,  Chambliss, 
Chilton,  Clapp,  Clopton,  Collier,  Conrad,  Crockett,  Currin,  Elliott,  Ewing,  Garland, 
Garnett,  Graham,  Hartridge,  Hanly,  Heiskell,  Hilton,  Herbert,  Hodge,  Holcombe, 
Jones,  Lewis,  Lyon,  Lyons,  Machen,  Marshall,  Martin,  Miles,  Moore,  Perkins,  Read, 
Russell,  Sexton,  Swan,  Trippe,  Villere,  Wright  (Ga.),  Wright  (Tenn.),  Wright  (Tex.), 
and  the  Speaker — -46. 

Nays — Messrs.  Atkins,  H.  W.  Bruce,  Chambers,  Conrow,  Freeman,  Holt,  Kenner, 
McRae,  and  Welsh — 8. 

So  the  rules  were  suspended. 

Mr.  Boteler  (Va.),  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  to  which  had  been 
referred  a bill  of  the  Senate  (S.  132)  entitled  “An  act  to  establish  a Flag  for  the  Con- 
federate States,”  reported  the  same  back  with  the  recommendation  that  it  do  pass. 

Mr.  Swan  (Tenn.)  moved  to  lay  the  bill  on  the  table. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays;  which  were  ordered,  and  are 
recorded  as  follows,  viz  : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Arrington,  H.  W.  Bruce,  Chambers,  Chilton,  Clopton,  Conrow, 
Collier,  Crockett,  Elliott,  Ewing,  Freeman,  Garland,  Graham,  Hanly,  Herbert,  Hodge, 
Holt,  Lewis,  Marshall,  McLean,  Miller,  Moore,  Perkins,  Russell,  Swan,  Trippe,  Welsh, 
Wright  (Ga. ),  and  Wright  (Tex.) — 29. 

Nays — Messrs.  Ashe,  Atkins,  Batson,  Bell,  Boteler,  E.  M.  Bruce,  Chambliss, 
Clapp,  Conrad,  Currin,  Curry,  Garnett,  Gray,  Hartridge,  Hilton,  Holcombe,  Jones, 
Kenner,  Lyon,  Lyons,  Machen,  Martin,  Menees,  Read,  Sexton,  Villere,  Wright 
(Tenn.),  and  the  Speaker — 27. 

So  the  bill  was  laid  on  the  table. 

****** 

Mr.  Herbert  (Tex.)  moved  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  bill  last  reported 
from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  was  laid  on  the  table. 

****** 


30  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


A message  was  received  from  the  President,  by  Mr.  Harrison,  his  private  secretary, 
which  is  as  follows,  viz : 

Mr.  Speaker:  On  the  30th  ultimo,  the  President  approved  and  signed  the  following 
joint  resolution  * * : 

Joint  resolution  (H.  R.  13)  entitled  “Joint  resolution  for  the  establishment  of  a Seal 
for  the  Confederate  States.” 

****** 

Mr.  Hartridge  (Ga.)  moved  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  House  laid  on  the 
table  the  report  of  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  motion  to  reconsider  prevailed. 

The  question  being  on  the  motion  to  lay  the  bill  on  the  table,  was  decided  in  the 
negative. 

The  bill  having  been  read  as  follows,  viz  : 

The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact , That  the  Flag  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows : A white  field,  with  the  battle-flag  for  a 
union,  which  shall  be  square  and  occupy  two-thirds  of  the  width  of  the  Flag,  and  a 
blue  bar,  one-third  of  the  Flag  in  its  width,  dividing  the  field  lengthwise.  [See  Plate 
VII.] 

Mr.  Hartridge  (Ga.)  moved  to  amend  the  bill  as  follows,  viz  : Strike  out  the  words 
“ and  a blue  bar”  and  what  follows.  [See  Plate  VIII.] 

Mr.  Conrad  (La.)  moved  to  amend  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Hartridge  as  follows, 
viz:  Strike  out  all  after  the  word  “Flag,”  in  second  place,  and  insert  “and  a red 
border  around  the  entire  field,  except  that  portion  occupied  by  the  union,  which  border 
shall  be  on  each  side  one-tenth  of  the  width  of  the  entire  Flag.”  [See  Plate  IX.] 

Mr.  Garnett  (Va. ) called  the  question  ; and  on  his  call 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays  ; which  were  ordered,  and  recorded 
as  follows,  viz  : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Arrington,  Ashe,  Batson,  Bell.  E.  M.  Bruce,  H.  W.  Bruce,  Chilton, 
Chambers,  Chambliss,  Clopton,  Collier,  Conrad,  Conrow,  Crockett,  Ewing,  Freeman, 
Gaither,  Garland,  Graham,  Hanly,  Hilton,  Jones,  Machen,  Martin,  McLean,  Mun- 
nerlynn,  Read,  Russell,  Simpson,  Smith  (N.  C.),  Trippe,  Wright  (Ga.),  and  Wright 
(Tex. )— 33. 

Nays — Messrs.  Atkins,  Barksdale,  Boteler,  Clapp,  Currin,  Curry,  Farrow,  Garnett, 
Gray,  Harris,  Hartridge,  Heiskell,  Herbert,  Holcombe,  Holt,  Kenner,  Lewis,  Lyons, 
Marshall,  McRae,  Menees,  Miles,  Perkins,  Sexton,  Smith  (Ala.),  Swan,  Villere,  and 
Welsh— 28. 

So  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Conrad  was  adopted. 

Mr.  Chambers  (Miss.)  moved  to  amend  the  bill  by  striking  out  the  words  “two- 
thirds”  and  inserting  the  words  “three-fifths.” 

Mr.  Atkins  (Tenn.)  moved  to  lay  the  bill  and  amendments  on  the  table,  and  on 
his  motion  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays  ; which  were  not  ordered. 

Mr.  Garnett  (Va.)  called  the  question;  which  was  ordered,  and  the  amendment  of 
Mr.  Chambers  was  adopted. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  31 

Mr.  Swan  (Tenn.)  moved  to  amend  the  bill  by  striking  out  all  after  the  enacting 
clause  and  inserting  “That  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows : A red 
field,  with  a Saint  Andrew’s  cross  of  blue,  edged  with  white  and  emblazoned  with 
stars.”  [See  Plate  X.] 

And  on  his  motion  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays ; which  were  ordered,  and 
recorded  as  follows,  viz : 

Yeas — Messrs.  Barksdale,  Clapp,  Clopton,  Curry,  Heiskell,  Marshall,  McRae, 
Menees,  Perkins,  Swan,  Trippe,  Yillere,  Welsh,  and  Wright  (Tex.) — 14. 

Nays — Messrs.  Arrington,  Ashe,  Atkins,  Batson,  Boteler,  H.  W.  Bruce,  E.  M. 
Bruce,  Chambliss,  Chilton,  Collier,  Conrow,  Crockett,  Currin,  De  Jarnette,  Ewing, 
Farrow,  Freeman,  Gaither,  Garland,  Garnett,  Graham,  Gray,  Hanly,  Harris,  Hart- 
ridge,  Holt,  Herbert,  Hilton,  Hodge,  Holcombe,  Jones,  Kenner,  Lewis,  Lyon,  Lyons, 
Machen,  Martin,  Miles,  Miller,  Munnerlynn,  Pugh,  Read,  Russell,  Sexton,  Simpson, 
Smith  (Ala.),  Smith  (X.  C.),  Vest,  Wilcox,  Wright,  (Ga.),  and  Wright,  (Tenn.) — 51. 

So  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Swan  was  not  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Barksdale  (Miss.)  moved  to  amend  the  bill  as  follows,  viz  : 

Provided , That  the  cross  of  the  union  shall  not  be  emblazoned  with  stars. 

Mr.  Trippe  (Ga.)  moved  to  postpone  and  to  lay  the  whole  subject  on  the  table  until 
the  second  Monday  in  December  next ; and  on  his  motion 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  called  the  question:  which  was  ordered,  and  the  motion  to 
postpone  was  lost. 

Mr.  Garnett  (Va.)  called  the  previous  question,  and  the  main  question  was  ordered ; 
which,  being  on  the  amendment  of  Mr.  Barksdale,  was  decided  in  the  negative,  and 
the  amendment  was  lost. 

Mr.  Gray  (Tex.)  moved  to  amend  the  original  bill  as  follows,  viz:  Strike  out  all 
after  the  words  “as  follows”  in  the  third  line,  and  insert  “the  field  to  be  white;  the 
length  double  the  width  of  the  Flag,  with  the  union  (now  used  in  the  battle-flag)  to  be  a 
square  of  two-thirds  the  width  of  the  Flag,  having  the  ground  red,  thereon  a saltier 
of  blue  bordered  with  white,  and  emblazoned  with  mullets  or  five-pointed  stars,  cor- 
responding in  number  to  that  of  the  Confederate  States.” 

Upon  which 

Mr.  Jones  (Tenn.)  demanded  the  yeas  and  nays;  which  were  not  ordered,  and  the 
amendment  was  agreed  to. 

The  bill  was  then  read  a third  time  and  passed. 

* * * * * * 

Mr.  Elliott  (Ky. ),  from  the  Committee  on  Enrolled  Bills,  reported  as  correctly 
enrolled. a bill  of  the  following  title,  viz: 

S.  132.  An  act  to  establish  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States ; 

Which  was  signed  by  the  Speaker. 

****** 

A message  was  received  from  the  Senate  by  Mr.  Nash,  the  Secretary  of  that  body, 
which  is  as  follows,  viz : 

Mr.  Speaker:  * * * The  President  has  to-day  approved  and  signed  bills  of 
the  following  titles,  viz : 

S.  132.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 
****** 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  introduced  tlie  following  resolution;  which  was  agreed  to,  viz: 

Resolved,  That  the  Doorkeeper  of  the  House  be  authorized  to  have  made  a Con- 
federate Flag  after  the  model  of  the  Flag  adopted  by  Congress  this  day,  and  that  the 
same  be  raised  over  the  Capitol  at  12  m.  on  the  first  day  of  the  next  session  of  Con- 
gress— the  expenses  of  making  said  Flag  to  be  paid  out  of  the  contingent  fund  of  the 
House. 


E O XT  R T II  SESSION. 


Monday,  February  15,  1864. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Henry  (Tenn. ),  by  leave,  introduced  a bill  (S.  230)  to  amend  an  act  to  estab- 
lish the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States;  which  was  read  a first  and  second  time  and 
ordered  to  be  placed  on  the  Calendar. 


SECOND  CONGRESS. 

FIRST  SESSION. 

Saturday,  May  7, 1864. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  Chair  announced  the  appointment  of  the  standing  committees  of  the  House 
as  follows: 

****** 

Flag  and  Seal. — Messrs.  Chilton  (Ala.),  Rives  (Va. ),  Chambers  (Miss.). 

Monday,  May  23,  1864. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Russell  (Va.)  presented  the  account  of  Henry  Exall,  architect,  for  making 
plans  and  drawings  for  Flags  and  Seals ; which  was  referred  to  the  Committee  on  Claims. 

[Kichhond,  May  1, 1864. 


The  Confederate  States  of  America, 

To  Henry  Exall,  Architect.  Dr. 

To  making  sundry  plans  and  drawings  for  Flags  and  Seals,  by  order  of  the  chairman  of  the 
Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  Confederate  States  Congress $300  00] 


Tuesday,  June  14,  1864. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Smith  (N.  C.),  from  the  Committee  on  Claims,  to  which  had  been  referred 
the  claim  of  Henry  Exall,  for  making  sundry  plans  and  drawings  for  Flags  and  Seals, 
reported  back  the  same  with  the  recommendation  that  the  committee  be  discharged 
from  its  further  consideration,  and  that  it  be  referred  to  the  Committee  of  Accounts ; 
which  was  agreed  to. 


SECOND  SESSION. 


Tuesday,  December  13,  1864. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Semmes  (La.),  by  leave,  introduced  a bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the 
Confederate  States : which  was  read  a first  and  second  time  and  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  Naval  Affairs,  viz: 

The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact , That  the  Flag  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows : The  width  two-thirds  of  its  length,  -with 
the  union  (now  used  as  the  battle-flag)  to  be  in  width  three-fifths  of  the  width  of  the 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


34 

Flag,  and  so  proportioned  as  to  leave  the  length  of  the  field  on  the  side  of  the  union 
twice  the  width  of  the  field  below  it;  to  have  the  ground  red,  and  a broad,  blue 
saltier  thereon,  bordered  with  white  and  emblazoned  with  mullets  or  five-pointed 
stars,  corresponding  in  number  to  that  of  the  Confederate  States;  the  field  to  be  white, 
except  the  outer  half  from  the  union  to  be  a red  bar  extending  the  width  of  the  Flag. 

[See  Plate  XI.] 

Friday,  December  16,  1864. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Brown  (Miss.),  from  the  Committee  on  Naval  Affairs,  to  which  was  referred 
the  bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States,  reported  it  without 
amendment. 

The  Senate  proceeded,  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole,  to  the  consideration  of  the 
said  bill. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Brown, 

Ordered , That  it  be  referred  to  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs. 

Saturday,  December  24,  1864. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Wickham  (Va.)  offered  the  following  resolution  ; which  was  adopted,  viz: 

Resolved,  That  the  Committee  on  Claims  inquire  into  the  justice  of  the  claim  of 
Henry  Exall,  for  compensation  for  certain  designs  and  drawings  furnished  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal  during  the  first  Congress,  and  report  by  bill  or  otherwise. 

Wednesday,  January  11,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Staples  (Va. ) presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Chilton  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  January  20,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Staples  (Va.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  presented  two  communications  enclosing  designs  for  a Confed- 
erate Flag;  which  were  referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Mr.  Funsten  (Va.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was  referred 
to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 


CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  35 

Friday,  January  27,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Dickinson  (Ala.)  presented  a design  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  was 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Friday,  February  3,  1865. 

Senate. 

Mr.  Sparrow  (La.),  from  the  Committee  on  Military  Affairs,  to  which  was  referred 
the  bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States,  reported  it  without 
amendment. 

Saturday,  February  4,  1865. 

Senate. 

The  Senate  proceeded,  as  in  Committee  of  the  Whole,  to  the  consideration  of  the 
bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States,  and,  no  amendment  being 
proposed,  it  was  reported  to  the  Senate. 

Ordered,  That  it  be  engrossed  and  read  a third  time. 

The  said  bill  was  read  the  third  time. 

Resolved , That  it  pass,  and  that  the  title  thereof  be  as  aforesaid. 

Ordered,  That  the  Secretary  request  the  concurrence  of  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives therein. 

Monday,  February  6,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Miles  (S.  C.)  presented  sundry  designs  for  a Confederate  Flag;  which  were 
referred  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Tuesday,  February  7,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  Chair  laid  before  the  House  Senate  bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the 
Confederate  States ; which  was  read  a first  and  second  time  and  referred  to  the  Com- 
mittee on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

Wednesday,  February  15,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Chambers  (Miss.)  moved  that  temporary  appointments  be  made  of  additional 
members  of  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal ; which  motion  prevailed. 

And 

The  Speaker  appointed  Mr.  Funsten  (Va.). 


36  CONFEDERATE  CONGRESSES — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Tuesday,  February  21,  1865. 

Rouse  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Funsten  (Va.)  moved  that  the  calendar  be  postponed,  to  enable  him  to  move 
a suspension  of  the  rules,  in  order  to  report  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  motion  was  lost. 

Monday,  February  27,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

On  motion  of  Mr.  Funsten  (Va.),  the  rules  were  suspended,  to  enable  him  to  report 
from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal. 

And 

Mr.  Funsten,  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  to  which  had  been  referred 
a bill  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States,  reported  the  same  back 
and  recommended  its  passage. 

The  bill  was  read  the  third  time  and  passed. 

A motion  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  bill  was  passed  did  not  prevail. 

Thursday,  March  2,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

Mr.  Cruikshank  (Ala.),  from  the  Committee  on  Enrolled  Bills,  reported  as  cor- 
rectly engrossed  an  act  (S.  137)  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

The  Speaker  signed  the  same. 

Tuesday,  March  7,  1865. 

Senate. 

A message  from  the  President  of  the  Confederate  States,  by  Mr.  B.  N.  Harrison, 
his  secretary: 

Mr.  President:  The  President  of  the  Confederate  States,  on  the  4th  instant, 
approved  and  signed  the  following  acts : 

****** 

S.  137.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

Wednesday,  March  8,  1865. 

House  of  Representatives. 

The  following  message  was  received  from  the  Senate,  by  Mr.  Nash,  their  Secretary  : 

Mr.  Speaker : The  President  of  the  Confederate  States  has  notified  the  Senate 
that  he  did,  on  the  4th  instant,  approve  and  sign  the  following  acts  and  joint  resolution : 
* * * * , * * 

S.  137.  An  act  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 


CORRESPONDENCE 

ENCLOSING 

DESIGNS  FOR  A FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


APPENDIX D?-A_:R,T  IX. 


INDEX. 

Designs  submitted  for  Confederate  Flag. 

Date. 

Name  and  Plate. 

Page. 

1S61. 

Feb.  1 

Hamilton  Cooper 

1 * 

1 

Augustin  L.  Tarceau 

(Plates  II,  III)... 

1 

4 

R.  C.  Gilchrist 

2 

5 

“ Pocahontas  ” 

(Plate  V)... 

3 

7 

John  G.  Gaines 

3 

7 

“Disunion” 

3 

9 

Jos.  M.  Shellman 

(Plate  X)... 

4 

9 

Edwin  Y.  Sharp 

(Plates  XI,  XII)... 

4 

9 

W.  J.  Laval 

5 

10 

lire.  0.  Ladd 

6 

10 

“ Richmond  County” 

(Plate  XIV)... 

6 

11 

W.  J.  Laval 

7 

11 

J.  B.  S 

11 

Z 

11 

Thomas  H.  Hobbs 

8 

11 

R.  S.  Purse 

9 

' 11 

F.  W.  McMaster 

9 

11 

W.  H.  Hutchins 

9 

11 

H.  J.  E 

10 

11 

Henry  T.  Campbell 

12 

M.  P.  O’Connor 

10 

12 

A.  Bonand 

10 

12 

John  H.  Holmes 

10 

12 

A.  Freeman 

11 

12 

Jacob  B.  Platt 

12 

13 

T.  Butler  King 

14 

13 

J.  D.  B.  De  Bow 

14 

13 

Unknown 

15 

13 

“ Citadel  Cadet  ” 

15 

13 

G.  W.  Alexander 

16 

13 

T.  J.  Forsyth 

16 

14 

Stewart 

16 

14 

Walter  Cecil  Haskey 

16 

14 

“Southron  ” 

17 

14 

“A  Citizen  and  Friend  ”... 

18 

14 

“A  Fellow-citizen” 

18 

15 

“A  Citizen  and  Nullifier  since  1830” 

(Plate  XXXVII)... 

18 

15 

Charles  C.  Jones,  jr 

19 

15 

Eugene  Wythe  Baylor 

(Plate  XXXVIII)... 

19 

15 

William  W.  White 

19 

15 

F.  Holzac 

20 

15 

Unknown  

20 

15 

John  Laurens 

21 

15 

“A  Georgian ” 

22 

16 

h 

26 

16 

It.  C.  Ketchum 

26 

16 

“A  Citizen  and  Nullifier  since  1830” 

(Plate  XLVIII)... 

27 

ii  • INDEX. 


Designs  submitted  for  Confederate  Flag — Continued. 


Date. 

Name  and 

Plate. 

Page. 

1861. 

Feb.  16 

Mrs.  Mary  E.  Collins  Brown 

(Plate  XLIX)... 

27 

16 

w 

(Plate  L)... 

28 

17 

Robert  M.  Stiles 

(Plates  LI,  LII)... 

28 

17 

“ Some  of  the  Ladies  of  Columbia” 

(Plate  XXXV)... 

29 

17 

“Carolinian” 

(Plates  XI,  XXV)... 

29 

17 

Unknown 

.(Plates  LIII  to  LV)... 

30 

18 

“A  Citizen  and  Nullifier  since  1830” 

34 

18 

A 

(Plate  LVII)... 

34 

18 

II.  Aug.  Pond 

(Plates  LVIIJ,  LIX)... 

34 

IS 

E.  Barnwell  Heyward 

(Plate  LX)... 

36 

18 

John  C.  C.  Noland 

37 

18 

C.  E.  Brame 

(Plates  LXI,  LXII)... 

37 

18 

Unknown  

(Plate  LXIII)... 

38 

19 

E.  0.  Grigsby  and  James  L.  Averill 

(Plates  LXIV,  LXV)... 

38 

19 

•T.  M.  F.  Gaston 

38 

20 

Mrs.  Aurelia  A.  Longmire 

(Plate  LXVII)... 

39 

20 

•T.  M.  Jennings 

(Plate  LXVIII)... 

40 

20 

Mrs.  E.  G.  Carpenter 

(Plate  LXIX)... 

40 

20 

40 

20 

R.  B.  Waddell 

(Plate  LXX)... 

41 

20 

R.  B Waddell 

41 

20 

“ .T  D P ” 

43 

21 

W.  T.  Riddle 

(Plates XXXI  to  LXXIII)... 

43 

21 

43 

21 

C.  Kirkwood  Otey 

(Plate  LXXIV)... 

43 

22 

Ann  G.  Wightt 

44 

22 

45 

23 

Lewis  May 

(Plates  LXXVI,  LXXVII)... 

46 

23 

Ed.  Emerick  Sell 

(Plate  LXXYIII)... 

46 

24 

47 

24 

48 

25 

“Jasper” 

(Plate  LXXIX)... 

48 

2G 

Unknown 

(Plate  LXXX)... 

49 

26 

Sylvester  C.  Lewis 

(Plate  LXXXI)... 

49 

27 

28 

William  M.  Brantly 

50 

March  2 

I.  L.  Honour 

(Plates  LXXXIII,  LXXXIV)... 

50 

March  12 

Martin  1^.  Snell 

50 

April  — 

E.  C.  Hancock 

51 

Aug.  28 

T.  Morton  Lyle 

(Plates  LXXXVI,  LXXXVII)... 

52 

Dec.  9 

Joseph  Myers 

52 

1862. 

March  31 

H.  D.  Starr 

54 

1864. 

March  12 

Robert  Newman  

54 

Dec.  21 

E.  P.  Alexander 

: (Plates  XCI  to  XCIII)... 

55 

27 

John  R.  Bledsoe 

(Plate  XCIV)... 

55 

INDEX. 


Ill 


Designs  submitted  for  Confederate  Flag  (without  date) — Continued. 


Name  and  Plate. 


Proposed  by  a gentleman  of  Louisville,  Ky. 

Tlieophilus  A.  Jones 

Unknown 

Unknown 

P.  J.  Anderson  

Samuel  White 

J.  Legare 

P.  McGuigin  and  Braisted 

W.  P.  Hilliard 

“West” 

•T.  K.  Hamilton 

Unknown  

Unknown 

Unknown 

J.  Alma  Pelot 

Unknown  

John  Sansom 

Unknown 

“ A Southerner ” 

Unknown 

Unknown 

Unknown 

“A  Southerner”  

Unknown 

“ By  a S.  C.  Alabamian  ” 

Unknown  

“ T.” 

“ Alabama  ” 

T.  0.  Chestney 

Unknown 

Unknown 

“A  Lady  of  South  Carolina” 


Page. 


(Plate  XCV)... 

(Plate  XCVI)... 

(Plate  XCVII)... 

(Plates  XCVIII  to  CV)... 

(Plates  CVI  to  CXYII)... 

(Plate  CXVIIIj... 

(Plates  CXIX  to  CXXIV)... 

(Plates  CXXV,  CXXVI)... 

...(Plates  CXXYII,  CXXVIII)... 
.(Plates  CXXI-X  to  CXXXIX)... 

(Plate  CXL)... 

(Plates  CXLI  to  CXLIII)... 

(Plates  CXLIY  to  CLVI)... 

(Plates  CLVII  to  CLXVI)... 

(Plate  CLXYII)... 

...(Plates  CLXYIII  to  CLXX)... 

(Plate  CLXXI)... 

..(Plates  CLXXII,  CLXXIII)... 

(Plate  CLXXIY')... 

— (Plates  CLXXV,  CLXXVI).. 


56 

57 
57 

57 

58 

59 

59 

60 
60 
60 
60 
60 
60 
61 
61 
61 
61 
61 
61 
62 


(Plate  CLXXYII)... 

(Plate  CLXXYIII)... 

(Plate  CLXXIX)... 

(Plate  CLXXX)... 

(Plate  CLXXXI)... 

(Plate  CLXXXII)... 

(Plate  CLXXXIII)... 

...(Plate  CLXXXI V)... 

(Plate  CLXXXV).., 

(Plate  CLXXXYI)... 

(CLXXXVII)... 

.(Plates  CLXXXYII1,  CLXXXIX)... 


62 

62 

62 

62 

63 

63 

63 

65 

66 
66 
66 
66 


* 


CONFEDEKATE  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


CORRESPONDENCE. 


Design  of  Hamilton  Cooper,  submitted  February  1,  1861. 
[See  Plate  I.] 


Hon.  R.  B.  Rhett. 


Adams’  Run,  February  1,  1861. 


Dear  Sir  : Having  acquired,  some  years  ago,  a jn'etty  thorough  knowledge  of  that 
branch  of  the  fine  arts  known  as  heraldrjq  I have  felt  it  my  duty  to  contribute  my  mite 
to  what  in  all  nations  is  regarded  with  love  and  devotion,  viz.,  its  Flag  and  Arms.  If 
my  Flag  and  Arms  are  worthy  of  it,  will  you  and  my  friend  Mr.  Miles  advocate  them, 
and  cause  the  Flag  to  be  hung  in  some  conspicuous  part  of  the  Hall? 

The  liberty  I take  in  addressing  you  has  been  accorded  me  by  Barnwell,  which  is 
the  only  excuse  I have  for  thus  intruding  myself  upon  your  notice. 

Yours,  very  respectfully, 


AUGUSTIN  L.  TARCF.AU. 


Heraldic  Blazon. 

Gules,  on  a cross  or,  as  many  Voiles  of  the  field  as  there  are  States  in  the  Confed- 
eracy— all  within  a bordure  of  the  second.  In  a canton  on  the  upper  dexter  corner, 
the  National  Flag  of  that  State  in  which  the  Federal  Flag  is  used. 

Translation. 

On  a crimson  ground,  a yellow  cross  containing  as  many  crimson  stars  as  there 
. are  States  in  the  Confederacy ; in  the  upper  right  corner,  a State  National  Flag — all 
surrounded  by  a yellow  border. 

Remarks. 

The  cross  in  a Flag  expresses  the  holiness  of  the  cause,  and  this  one  bears  on  its 
form  our  own  beautiful  constellation,  the  “Southern  Cross,”  formed  by  the  arrange- 
ment of  stars  representing  the  Southern  States.  The  incorporating  a State’s  own 
National  Flag  in  the  Federal  Flag  used  within  its  boundaries  signifies  that  she  asserts 
her  “ national  sovereignty”  within  the  Confederacy,  and  that  her  rights  are  coequal  and 
maintained — each  State  to  incorporate  only  her  own  Flag.  When  the  State  Flag  is  the 
same  ground  as  the  Federal  Flag,  the  State  Flag  should  be  fimbriated,  namely,  sur- 
rounded by  a narrow  border  of  a color  or  metal  which  shall  have  the  effect  of  distinctly 
separating  it  from  the  ground  (or  field)  of  the  Federal  Flag. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

If  the  arrangement  of  the  Flag  herewith  sent  is  approved,  but  the  colors  objected 
to,  and  it  be  desirable  to  substitute  blue  and  white  for  crimson  and  yellow,  the  arrange- 
ment would  be  this  wise : On  a blue  ground,  a white  cross  charged  with  fifteen  crimson 
(color  of  Mars)  stars,  all  surrounded  by  a while  border;  State  National  Flag  as  before 
mentioned.  But  azure  (blue)  is  less  honorable  than  gules  (crimson),  and  argent  (white, 
i.  e.  silver)  less  honorable  than  or  (gold).  In  composing  a Flag  or  Coat  of  Arms  it 
must  be  borne  in  mind  that  it  is  false  heraldry  to  charge  metal  upon  metal,  gold  upon 
silver,  or  color  upon  color.  “Or”  is  gold  or  yellow ; “argent,”  silver  or  white ; 
“gules,”  crimson;  “azure,”  blue;  “sable,”  black;  “vert,”  green;  “tawny,” 
orange;  “purpure,”  purple.  The  first  two  are  metals , the  last  six  colors.  The  Fed- 
eral Flag,  when  used  in  the  naval  or  mercantile  service,  should  have  a canton  in  the 
upper  dexter  corner,  fimbriated  white,  charged  with  the  “ Arms.” 

[See  Plates  II,  III.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  4,  1861. 

Hon.  C.  G.  Memminger, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Dear  Sir  : I herewith  send  a design  for  the  Flag  of  our  Southern  Confederation. 
I presume  this  subject  will  come  before  the  convention,  and  am  ambitious  of  being  the 
author  of  the  new  Flag,  which  will  float  over  every  sea  and  protect  the  citizens  of  the 
proudest  nation  on  the  earth.  May  I not  bespeak  your  influence?  The  description 
will  be  found  on  the  back  of  the  design.  I have  shown  it  to  many  persons  of  taste  in 
this  city,  and  it  has  been  universally  admired  and  commended. 

Respectfully,  yours, 

R.  C.  GILCHRIST. 


Description. 

A new  constellation  has  just  taken  its  place  among  the  galaxy  of  nations,  and  now 
the  “ Southern  Cross”  is  the  cynosure  of  all  eyes.  This  Flag  embodies  this  idea.  At 
the  same  time  it  seeks  to  preserve  the  essential  features  of  the  beautiful  Flag  of  the 
American  Republic,  to  which  we  have  as  great  a right  as  any  other  people  on  the  earth. 

The  centre  of  the  Flag  is  occupied  by  an  azure  “cross”  bespangled  with  stars 
equal  in  number  to  the  States  composing  the  Southern  Confederation — a star  to  be 
added  as  each  State  comes  in. 

Horizontally  are  alternate  red  and  white  stripes,  equal  in  number  to  the  States 
represented  in  this  convention — the  original  seceding  States. 

There  is  no  Flag  in  the  world  like  it,  and  yet  we  have  the  “stars  and  stripes” 
still.  The  combination  of  its  colors,  although  by  no  means  gaudy,  will  make  it  con- 
spicuous at  the  greatest  distance  on  sea  or  land.  As  such  it  is  respectfully  presented 
to  the  consideration  of  the  Southern  Convention. 

[See  Plate  IV.] 


Norfolk,  Va.,  February  5,  1861. 

President  Southern  Contention, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Sir:  In  the  farewell  address  of  Senator  Slidell,  delivered  before  the  Senate  of  the 
United  States  yesterday,  on  presenting  to  that  body  the  Louisiana  ordinance  of  seces- 
sion, he  remarked,  in  speaking  of  the  formation  of  a Southern  Confederacy,  that  the 
South  did  not  intend  to  give  up  that  Flag  which  has  so  long  been  the  honored  ensign 
of  the  United  States.  It  was  to  me  a most  gratifying  declaration  that  it  is  the  Flag  of 
the  South  as  well  as  the  North. 

Those  stars  and  stripes,  which  have  been  so  honorably  borne  to  every  accessible 
sea,  and  have  so  proudly  fluttered  to  every  breeze  of  the  habitable  globe,  will  ever  be 
cherished  and  admired  by  true  American  hearts.  May  they  ever  be  the  Flag  of  all 
American  Republics  formed  out  of  the  once  Confederated  States — the  United  States 
of  America — without  marring  the  beauty  of  that  proud  Flag  as  it  is,  or  that  chaste 
blending  of  the  “red,  white,  and  blue”  which  makes  it  the  grandest  in  the  world. 

If  your  convention,  looking  to  the  formation  of  a Southern  Republic  and  the 
adoption  of  the  stars  and  stripes  for  its  Flag,  has  not  already  devised  one,  I would 
respectfully  and  modestly  suggest  the  substitution  of  a renowned  constellation,  the 
“Southern  Cross”  (both  emblematic  and  suggestive),  for  the  union  of  stars  now  in  the 
blue  field  of  the  present  Flag  of  the  United  States,  and  that  a star  for  each  State  (red, 
white,  or  golden,  as  may  seem  most  fitting  and  appropriate)  be  placed  on  one  of  the 
central  stripes,  so  the  stars  and  stripes  may  yet  be  the  Flag  of  your  new,  as  they  were 
of  the  old,  Republic. 

Respectfully  submitted. 


[See  Plate  V.] 


POCAHONTAS.’ 


New  Orleans,  La.,  February  7,  1861. 

President  Southern  Convention, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

My  Dear  Sir  : As  the  adoption  of  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy  of  States 
will  be  among  the  early  labors  of  the  convention  now  in  session  at  Montgomery,  the 
annexed  is  respectfully  suggested.  By  it  we  can  hold  on  to  the  associations  that  are 
connected  with  the  “stars  and  stripes,”  and  yet  not  conflict  with  the  Flag  of  the  North- 
ern States.  I have  shown  it  to  several  friends,  who  universally  approve  it. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

JOHN  G.  GAINES. 

[See  Plate  VI.] 


Richmond,  Va.,  February  7,  1861. 

* * * * * 

Dear  Sir:  I beg  most  respectfully  to  enclose  to  you  two  designs  for  a National 
Ensign  for  our  new  Confederacy.  One  represents  the  old  Flag,  with  a black  stripe 
diagonally  across  its  face,  with  stars  of  the  seceding  States  on  its  surface  (meaning 


4 CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

that  we  are  divided  on  the  slavery  question),  the  union,  a blue  ground,  with  either  the 
letter  W or  a medallion  head  of  Washington,  surrounded  by  stars ; the  other  a tri- 
color of  red,  white,  and  black,  the  colors  of  our  population — union,  blue  ground  dotted 
with  stars. 

I suggest  the  Coat  of  Arms  be  a figure  representing  the  Goddess  of  Justice,  with 
the  left  foot  slightly  raised,  resting  on  a broken  fascine,  representing  the  shattered 
Union:  in  her  left  hand  a scroll,  and  in  her  right  a drawn  sword  raised  in  defense  of 
the  Constitution  ; on  her  head  a helmet  encircled  with  stars.  The  background  a repre- 
sentation of  an  approaching  storm  with  lightning,  and  an  indistinct  eagle  flying  at  its 
approach. 

I also  suggest  that  we  either  adopt  the  title  of  the  Republic  of  Washington,  or 
Aleghania,  or  the  United  States  of  Aleghania.  The  last  would  probably  unite  the 
western  part  of  Virginia  and  the  border  slave  States.  Should  you  adopt  either  of  my 
suggestions,  I should  be  happy  to  make  myself  known  to  you.  I now  sign  myself 

“DISUNION.” 

Motto  : In  hoc  signo  vinces. 

[See  Plates  VII,  VIII,  IX.] 


Augusta,  Ga.,  February  9,  1861. 

* * * * * 

Dear  Sir:  I send  you  a rude  specimen  of  a Flag  which  I propose  for  adoption  by 
the  Southern  Congress  as  the  National  Banner  of  the  Southern  Confederacy.  It  is,  as 
you  perceive,  in  form  similar  to  the  United  States  Flag,  which  is  emblematic  of  our 
former  Union ; but  the  transposition  of  the  colors,  of  our  repudiation  of  that  Union. 
The  tricolor  is  the  emblem  of  Liberty ; the  'clustering  stars,  of  Union  ; and  their  arrange- 
ment in  the  form  of  a cresent,  of  Progress.  Hence,  our  motto  may  be:  Liberty, 
Union,  Progress.  The  artist  has  painted  the  faint  outline  of  the  new  moon,  which  he 
intended  merely  to  exhibit  the  more  clearly  the  arrangement  of  the  stars  in  that  form, 
and  is  not  intended  to  form  any  feature  in  the  Flag.  I am  a plain,  unpretending  man, 
who  has  now,  for  the  first  time,  ventured  to  obtrude  his  views  on  any  public  body,  and 
if  they  are  not  acceptable,  I am  content. 

Yours,  respectfully, 

JOS.  M.  SHELLMAN. 


.If  you  do  not  think  it  worthy  of  notice,  please  suppress  it. 
[See  Plate  X.] 


J.  M.  S. 


Augusta,  Ga.,  February  9,  1861. 

W.  H.  Pritchard, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

Dear  Sir  : Herewith  you  will  find  devices  for  Seal  and  Flag  for  the  Southern  Con- 
federacy, and  description  accompanying  them.  My  desire  is  to  have  the  same  brought 
before  the  committee  appointed  for  the  purpose  of  getting  up  Seal  and  Flag,  and 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  5 

earnestly  request  that  you  place  them  in  the  hands  of  some  one  who  will  give  them  due 
consideration.  If  Mr.  Gardner  is  still  in  Montgomery  he  will  appreciate  my  object, 
and  I know  of  no  one  with  whom  I would  rather  trust  them. 

Any  favor  performed  in  regard  to  the  designs  will  be  highly  appreciated  by  me. 

Your  friend, 

EDWIN  Y.  SHARP.  • 

P.  S. — Design  has  got  so  dirty  from  handling  that  I am  ashamed  to  send  it.  It  has 
just  returned  to  me. 

Description  of  devices. 

Seal. — An  escutcheon  composed  of  the  following  parts:  A chief,  occupying  the 
whole  length  and  one-third  of  its  breadth,  which  represents  Congress,  bearing  upon  its 
blue  area  a number  of  stars  (argent  or  white)  equal  to  the  States  forming  the  Confed- 
eracy. Upon  each  side  of  the  chief  are  three  upright  pales  equal  in  width  to  each 
other,  placed  alternately,  yellow  (gold)  and  red,  the  red  in  the  middle — six  original 
States — the  whole  border  done  with  oak  and  laurel.  Just  emanating  from  a dark  cloud, 
which  represents  our  late  national  troubles,  relieved  by  the  bosom  of  a cerulean  sky,  is 
a young  moon,  shining  by  no  borrowed  light,  save  that  of  our  own  six  suns , denoting 
the  infancy  and  purity  of  the  new  Republic.  Over  all,  suspended  in  air,  for  Inde- 
pendence. floats  a red  scroll  bearing  the  motto. 

Flag. — To  be  twice  as  long  as  deep.  The  middle  third  to  be  blue,  extending  the 
whole  length,  and,  placed  upon  it  according  to  taste,  a . number  of  white  stars  equal  to 
the  States  in  the  Confederacy ; the  upper  and  lower  thirds  to  be  divided  into  (each) 
three  equal  parts,  each  part  having  two  yellow  and  one  red  stripe,  the  stripes  hori- 
zontal. Colors  used:  White,  purity  ; blue,  perseverance  ; red,  valor;  yellow,  wealth, 
prosperity. 

[See  Plates  XI,  XII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  9,  1861. 

Hon.  Howell  Cobb, 

President  Southern  Convention. 

Dear  Sir:  I have  the  honor  herewith  to  enclose  to  you  several  unpretending- 
designs  for  the  Flag  of  the  Southern  Confederacy,  which  you  are  most  respectfully 
requested  to  submit  for  the  consideration  of  the  convention  now  assembled  at  Mont- 
gomery. The  fair  hands  of  a patriotic  daughter  of  South  Carolina  have  assisted  in  the 
preparation  of  the  designs,  and  it  is  hoped  therefore  that  some  one  out  of  the  number 
submitted  may  commend  itself  to  the  approval  and  preference  of  the  distinguished 
body  over  which  you  preside. 

I have  further  to  request  that  you  would  cause  the  package  to  be  returned  to  me  at 
the  close  of  your  deliberations,  either  by  express  or  through  any  of  the  delegates  from 
this  State. 

I have  the  honor  to  be,  with  great  respect,  your  obedient  servant, 

W.  J.  LAVAL. 

[Designs  missing.] 


6 CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Hon.  W.  W.  Boyce. 


Southern  Confederacy, 
Winnsborough , S.  C.,  February  10,  1861. 


Sir  : Enclosed  I send  to  you  a Flag  for  the  new  Republic,  designed  by  Mr.  Ladd, 
which  is  simple,  as  all  national  Flags  should  be.  It  is  tricolored,  with  a red  union, 
seven  stars,  and  the  crescent  moon.  It  was  all  the  design  of  Mr.  Ladd,  with  exception 
of  the  stars  in  a circle  or  wreath  and  placing  the  crescent  moon  among  them,  which  I 
thought  would  be  a fit  emblem  of  our  young  Republic,  and  by  placing  the  stars  in  a 
wreath,  others  could  be  added  forming  a large  wreath  as  the  other  States  came  in. 

I am  vain  enough,  if  you  please  to  term  it  so  (but  I term  it  patriotism),  to  feel  that 
1 would  wish  no  greater  honor  than  to  see  the  slightest  thing  I had  a hand  in  adopted 
by  the  Southern  Confederacy. 

We  have  three  boys  to  give  to  our  country.  Words  could  not  express  the  glow  of 
pride  that  throbbed  our  bosoms  when  we  saw  them  ready  to  respond  to  their  country’s 
call.  My  boys  are  part  of  a mother’s  jewels — freely  given  when  needed.  My  next 
greatest  glory  would  be  to  see  the  design  adopted  and  flung  to  the  breeze.  May  it  yet  be 
unfurled,  floating  proudly  and  free  over  the  bright  sunny  South  and  on  the  dark  roll- 
ing sea. 


Our  great  Washington  fought  for  the  principles  we  are  now  contending  for,  and 
thought  he  had  secured  them.  May  our  young  Republic  honor  his  memory  with  the 
name  of  Washington  Republic,  dating  from  the  22d  of  February.  The  day  would  then 
be  kept  to  celebrate  two  great  events. 

Just  as  I finished  the  word  “ events  ” I heard  the  news  that  Mr.  Davis  had  been 
elected  President.  Glorious  news!  We  are  free.  We  have  institutions  of  our  own, 
a country  that  we  can  call  our  own,  rulers,  from  among  our  people.  There  is  not  a 
Southern  woman — wife,  mother,  or  maid — but  what  feels  prouder  to-day  of  her  country, 
knowing,  as  we  do,  that  we  have  fathers,  husbands,  sons,  and  brothers,  who  are  willing 
to  sacrifice  all  to  duty  and  honor. 

In  peace  or  war  you  have  with  you  the  prayers  and  sympathies  of  every  woman 
who  glories  in  saying,  I am  a woman  of  the  South. 

Yours,  &c., 


Mrs.  C.  LADD. 


P.  S. — We  shall  need  your  services  to  deliver  the  Flag  to  the  Boyce  Guards  in  the 
course  of  ten  days. 

G.  W.  L. 


[See  Plate  XIII.] 


Augusta,  Ga.,  February  10,  1861. 

Hon.  A.  H.  Stephens, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  herewith  please  find  a design  proposed  for  the  Flag  of  “ The 
Confederate  States  of  North  America.” 

I have  used  “cheeky”  in  the  shield,  as  it  is  “considered  one  of  the  most  noble 
and  ancient  figures  used  in  armory.”  As  a chess-board,  it  represents  the  battle-field 
upon  which  we  expect  to  contend  for  our  independence. 


i 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  7 


Of  the  colors  proposed  it  is  unnecessary  to  say  any  thing  as  to  their  emblematic 
significance.  The  green,  however,  is  unusual,  and  it  may  be  well  to  state  that  it  is 
intended  to  represent  a large  element  in  our  population  derived  from  the  “Emerald 
Isle.” 


I also  send  you  three  plates  of  Flags  now  “afloat,”  by  which  you  will  see  that  the 
design  is  original. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

“RICHMOND  COUNTY.” 


[See  Plate  XIV.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  11,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Dear  Sir:  At  the  suggestion  of  some  of  my  friends,  a package  containing  several 
designs  for  the  Flag  for  our  new  Confederacy  was  forwarded  by  me,  on  the  9th  instant, 
to  the  Hon.  Howell  Cobb,  president  of  the  convention.  Several  additional  designs 
were  also  sent  by  me  to-day  through  Adams’  express,  under  cover  directed  to  yourself, 
but  ■want  of  time  rendered  it  impossible  for  me  to  extend  to  you  the  courtesy  of  a letter. 
Be  pleased  to  accept  this  as  an  apology. 

You  will  be  kind  enough  to  present  my  humble  contribution  to  the  committee,  and 
oblige  your  fellow-citizen  and  obedient  servant, 

W.  J.  LAVAL. 

You  will  oblige  by  bringing  the  designs  with  you  when  you  return  to  Charleston, 
or  sending  them  by  any  convenient  opportunity,  after  the  adoption  of  a Flag. 

[Designs  missing.] 


Augusta,  Ga.,  February  11,  1861. 

Hon.  A.  H.  Stephens. 

Sir  : I herein  enclose  you  a design  for  a Southern  States  Flag. 

Yours,  respectfully, 

J.  B.  S. 

[Design  missing.] 


[From  the  Charleston  Mercury,  February  11, 18C1.] 

The  seceded  States  having  now  adopted  a provisional  form  of  government,  the 
Southern  Confederacy  will,  of  course,  soon  be  in  need  of  a suitable  Flag. 

I wrould  respectfully  suggest,  therefore,  that  we  have  one  not  only  plain  and  of 
striking  contrast  in  color,  but  approximating  to,  yet  differing  essentially  from,  the  Flag 
of  the  United  States.  This  Flag  we  cannot  but  regard  as  one  under  which  our  common 
country  has  risen  to  unexampled  prosperity,  and  under  which  also  some  of  the  most 
noble  achievements  of  the  present  age  have  been  accomplished,  lifting  our  national 
reputation  into  a truly  high  and  commanding  position,  and  to  which  proud  elevation 
none  certainly  have  contributed  more  than  our  own  native  brethren  of  the  sunny  South. 


8 CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

As  no  colors  are  more  easily  distinguishable  than  deep  blue,  white,  and  deep  red, 
I would  recommend  therefore  that  we  adopt  a Flag  with  the  colors  combined  as  follows 
(say):  about  one-third  of  the  Flag,  next  the  flag-staff,  to  consist  of  two  equal  squares 
of  deep  blue  and  red,  the  blue  in  the  upper  corner  to  form  the  union,  containing  a 
white  star  for  each  seceded  State.  The  rest  of  the  Flag  to  be  composed  of  blue,  white, 
and  red  stripes,  say  thirteen,  in  honor  of  the  old  original  States ; they  would  all  then 
be  of  equal  length,  and  the  upper  and  lower  stripes  both  blue.  Should  the  fifteen 
slave-holding  States  secede,  the  stars  will  then  suffice,  and  may  be  so  arranged  as  to 
form  one  large  star  in  the  centre  of  the  union  ; but  if  all  the  slave  States  do  not  secede, 
a circular  arrangement  of  the  stars  might  then  be  preferable.  Having  had  something 
to  do  with  Flags  in  my  time,  and  knowing  from  experience  what  colors  can  be  most 
readily  distinguished,  especially  on  the  ocean,  where  none  can  be  so  plainly  seen  and 
at  so  great  a distance  as  the  present  tricolor  of  France,  has  induced  me  to  offer  the 
above  suggestions,  in  the  hope  that  in  giving  due  attention  to  the  subject  they  may  be 
found  acceptable. 

Z. 

Since  the  above  communication  was  sent  to  the  Mercury  office,  it  was  considered 
an  improvement  to  divide  the  red  square  diagonally,  connecting  the  white  division  with 
the  lower  part  of  the  blue  and  with  the  end  of  the  stripes,  thus  rendering  the  Flag 
more  conspicuous,  as  may  be  seen  in  the  design  herewith  enclosed. 

[See  Plate  XV.] 


Chattanooga,  Tenn.,  February  11,  1861. 

Hon.  R.  W.  Walker, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Enclosed  I send  you  a design  for  the  banner  for  the  new  Confederacy.  If  you 
think  it  has  any  merit,  and  the  Congress  chooses  to  adopt  a new  banner,  you  may  lay 
this  before  them.  Its  merits  are — 

1.  The  stars  represent  States,  and  being  arranged  in  a circle,  the  close  union  of 
those  States.  This  arrangement  (in  a circle)  will  allow  of  indefinite  increase  of  num- 
ber, as  other  States  come  in,  without  destroying  the  original  design. 

2.  We  will  still  have  a ‘‘Star  Spangled  Banner,”  which  is  dear  to  the  people  from 
old  association,  and  we  can  afford  to  let  the  Yankees  keep  the  stripes.  We  are  entitled 
to  a “Star  Spangled  Banner,”  because  the  best  poetry  in  honor  of  it  was  composed  by 
a Southern  man,  and  the  incident  which  occasioned  its  composition  occurred  on  Southern 
soil  and  reflected  honor  on  Southern  soldiers. 

3.  The  Flag  to  be  of  solid  blue  and  the  stars  white. 

4.  The  motto  attributes  the  splendors  of  the  stars  to  the  honor  and  unbroken  faith 
of  the  States. 

Very  respectfully,  your  friend  and  obedient  servant, 

THOMAS  H.  HOBBS. 

[See  Plate  XVI.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  9 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  11,  18G1. 

*■**,#.* 


Dear  Sir:  Solicitous  that  our  National  Ensign  should  not  be  a copy  of  others, 
but  one  suitable  to  the  best  Government  formed  by  men  for  man,  I take  the  liberty  of 
suggesting  the  following:  On  a crimson  field,  a deep  yellow  sun,  with  a ray  for  each 
State.  Ensign  to  be  one-third  longer  than  its  width. 

Very  respectfully,  yours,  &c., 

R.  S.  PURSE. 


[See  Plate  XVII.] 


Hon.  W.  W.  Boyce, 

Montgomery , Ala. 


Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  11.  1861. 


Dear  Colonel:  I send  you  by  express  a design  of  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Con- 
federacy, gotten  up  in  great  haste  this  morning  by  Mr.  R.  B.  Waddell,  which  strikes 
me  as  being  much  more  appropriate  than  the  Southern  Cross,  proposed  by  a Charles- 
tonian. The  Flag  made  after  Mr.  Waddell's  design  will  be  very  beautiful.  It  is  the 
French  tricolor,  red,  white,  and  blue  ; but  in  the  French  Flag  the  colors  are  parallel.  I 
think  it  a very  simple  and  tasteful  Flag. 

The  Cross  is  a badge  of  Papal  power,  and  will  be  repulsive  to  the  taste  of  a large 
majority  of  the  Southern  people. 

Please  show  the  design  to  Mr.  Memminger.  In  great  haste  for  the  express, 

I remain,  yours  truly, 


[See  Plate  LXX.] 


F.  W.  McM ASTER. 


U.  S.  Mail  Steamship  Galveston, 

New  Orleans,  Republic  of  Louisiana,  February  11.  1861. 

Hon.  Howell  Cobb, 

President  Southern  Convention. 

Dear  Sir:  I have  taken  the  liberty  to  recommend  to  your  attention,  and,  through 
you,  to  the  convention,  the  manifest  propriety  of  adopting  the  “ Star  Spangled  Banner” 
as  the  Flag  of  the  Southern  Confederacy,  changing  only  the  color  of  the  red  stripes  to 
blue. 

That  Flag  is  as  dear  to  every  true  Southern  heart  as  is  a babe  to  its  mother’s 
affections.  The  change  above  mentioned,  with  one  star  to  represent  each  State  belong- 
ing to  u Our  Union,”  will  render  it  sufficiently  distinct  from  the  old  one  to  prevent 
confusion. 

I remain,  dear  sir,  with  sentiments  of  esteem,  truly,  your  obedient  servant, 

W.  H.  HUTCHINS. 

[Design  missing,  but,  from  the  above  description,  it  must  be  identical  with  that 
proposed  by  a gentleman  of  Louisville,  Ivy.  See  Plate  XCV.] 


10  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  11,  1861. 

Mr.  Memminger. 

Dear  Sir:  You  will  please  do  me  the  favor  of  submitting  the  within  Flag  to  the 
committee  on  the  same,  and  to  state  that  the  star  in  the  centre  is  to  be  composed  of 
small  stars,  one  for  each  State  in  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

By  so  doing  you  will  much  oblige  your  humble  servant, 

H.  J.  E. 

P.  S. — You  will  please  destroy  this,  and,  if  the  above  should  be  adopted,  well  and 
good  ; if  not,  let  it  drop. 

[See  Plate  XVIII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  12,  1861. 

Hon.  Wm.  P.  Miles. 

Dear  Sir  : Perceiving  that  you  are  on  the  committee  to  report  a Flag  for  the 
Southern  Confederacy,  I beg  leave  to  suggest  to  you  a design  which  I think  would  be 
appropriate.  The  design  is  as  follows:  To  reverse  the  colors  of  the  old  United  States 
Flag,  “ blue  and  white  stripes,  with  red  union  and  white  stars  in  the  union.”  I think  it 
would  be  almost,  if  not  equally,  as  handsome  as  the  Stars  and  Stripes  of  the  late  United 
States. 

I will  be  obliged  if,  among  the  other  specimens  that  will  be  brought  before  your 
committee,  you  would  remember  to  submit  to  them  the  present  design. 

Most  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

M.  P.  O'CONNOR. 

[See  Plate  XIX.] 


Hon.  F.  S.  Bartow. 


Savannah,  Ga.,  February  12,  1861. 


Dear  Sir:  I take  the  liberty  of  sending  you  two  models  for  the  Flag  of  the 
Southern  Confederation,  not  that  I think  myself  better  posted  than  the  honorable 
gentlemen  composing  your  committee,  but  the  desire  to  preserve  the  old  Flag,  if  not  in 
design,  at  least  in  color,  has  prompted  me  to  submit  to  you  the  enclosed  models.  The 
main  object  in  the  composition  of  a Flag  being,  in  my  humble  opinion,  simplicity, 
solidity,  and  facility  of  making  the  same,  the  enclosed  models  have,  in  my  opinion, 
that  merit.  The  stars  have  six  points,  representing  the  six  States  who  have  first  formed 
the  present  Confederacy. 

Very  respectfully, 

A.  BONAND. 


[See  Plates  XX,  XXI.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  12,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

My  Dear  Sir  : I enclose  three  designs  for  a National  Flag,  which  you  will  be  kind 
enough  to  hand  to  the  committee  to  whom  that  matter  has  been  referred. 

No.  1 is  something  like  the  United  States  Flag.  ' The  difference  of  arrangement  is 
such  that  they  never  can  be  mistaken  one  for  the  other. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  11 


In  No.  2 you  will  find  the  “crescent,”  not  taken  from  the  South  Carolina  Flag, 
but,  as  emblematic  of  “increase”  in  heraldry,  belonging  to  the  “ second  son,”  he 
being  “further  increase ,”  with  promise  for  the  future. 

No.  3 is  a simple  design,  and  / think  the  best. 


I send  these  supposing  they  may  aid  the  committee  in  their  work,  and  not  suppos- 
ing they  will  select  any  one,  but  compile  a Flag  from  many  designs.  Having  had  con- 
siderable experience  in  this  line,  I take  the  liberty  of  offering  you  a few  suggestions, 
so  that,  if  you  are  a member  of  the  committee,  it  may  be  useful  to  you.  Flags,  when 
made  up  of  bunting  (the  only  fabric  that  will  suit),  look  very  differently  from  the  designs 
on  paper,  and  the  more  simple  in  design  the  better;  in  fact,  an  elaborate  one  is  of  no 
use,  practically,  since  its  minute  details  cannot  be  seen.  Except  in  a calm,  they  are 
never  in  one  position,  and  are  only  seen  entire  when  the  wind  blows  a steady , strong 
breeze.  One  color  for  groundwork  is  too  monotonous;  three , to'o  many;  two  of  proper 
contrast  is  the  best.  Red,  blue,  and  a limited  space  of  white,  are  the  most  imposing, 
and  can  be  seen  at  a greater  distance  than  others.  For  emblems,  the  star  seems  to  be 
the  most  applicable  to  our  kind  of  government.  In  the  designs  I send  I have  avoided 
the  “cross.”  There  are  so  many  European  Ensigns  that  have  the  cross  that  it  makes 
one  too  many;  this,  however,  is  a matter  of  taste.  I have  used  eight  stars,  because 
that  is  the  number  of  the  Cotton  States;  but  I suppose  this  will  be  controlled  by  cir- 
cumstances. In  connection  with  this  matter  of  States,  I would  remark  that  if  there  is 
any  addition  of  these,  there  must  be  of  stars  also,  and  such  a design  as  may  be 
selected  must  allow  of  this  addition  without  impairing  its  beauty  and  appearance. 
I should  be  pleased  to  render  you  any  assistance  in  my  power,  should  it  be  required, 
and  (if  time  allows)  will  have  made  any  design  in  bunting  you  may  wish. 

Hoping  you  are  well,  and  congratulating  you  on  the  success  of  your  labors  .as  a 
member  of  the  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America,  I remain,  with  kind 
regards,  in  which  Mrs.  Holmes  joins  me, 

Yours,  truly, 

JOHN  H.  HOLMES. 


[See  Plates  XXII,  XXIII,  XXIV.] 


Macon,  Ga.,  February  12,  1861. 

Mr.  F.  S.  Bartow. 

Sir  : Enclosed  I send  you  a model  of  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy.  The 
old  Flag  has  thirteen  stripes,  representing  the  thirteen  original  colonies  ; this  has  only 
seven,  representing  the  seven  seceding  States — seven  stars  on  a blue  field.  The  motto 
or  emblem,  I do  not  know  which,  should  be  under  the  seven  stars. 

Yours,  &c., 

A.  A.  FREEMAN. 

[Design  missing,  but,  from  the  above  description,  it  must  be  identical  with  one  of 
those  represented  in  Plate  LXXXIII  or  XCVII.] 


12  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Augusta,  Ga.,  February  12,  1801. 

Hon.  A.  H.  Stephens, 

Tice  President. 

Dear  Sir  : Enclosed  you  will  please  find  a description  of  my  Flag,  from  my  friend, 
Dr.  H.  T.  Campbell,  whom  I have  succeeded  in  interesting  in  my  enterprise.  The  model 
itself  will  be  delivered  into  your  hands  by  the  messenger  of  Adams’  Express  Company. 
I would  prefer,  when  my  model  goes  before  the  committee,  that  Dr.  Campbell’s  letter  be 
read  to  them,  as  he  has  appeared  to  enter  more  fully  into  my  ideas  than  any  one  else; 
and,  also,  if  my  Flag  is  accepted  and  a description  published,  I wish  the  letter  used  for 
that  purpose.  I am  fully  certain  Dr.  Campbell  will  not  object.  I am  sorry  to  give  you 
so  much  trouble,  but  if  your  own  State  should  furnish  the  National  Emblem  it  will 
only  be  adding  to  her  title  to  be  called  “Empire  State.” 

Very  respectfully,  yours, 

JACOB  B.  PLATT. 


P.  S. — I must  ask  to  have  it  remembered  that  the  blue  field,  with  my  device  of 
arrangement  of  stars , &c.,  may  be  changed  to  any  part  of  my  szY-striped  bunting,  and 
yet  the  chief  idea  will  still  be  mine,  and,  by  all  laws  governing  inventions  and  discov- 
ery, I will  be  entitled  to  the  merit  and  honor  of  the  award.  My  Flag  has  been  described 
in  print.  I hope,  my  dear  sir,  that  I will  be  protected  from  any  surreptitious  adoption 
of  my  really  original  idea  to  the  injury  of  my  just  claims. 

Very  respectfully,  yours, 

J.  B.  PLATT. 


[See  Plate  XXV.] 


Augusta.  Ga.,  February  11,  1861. 

J.  B.  Platt,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir  : I have  carefully  examined  and  considered  the  Flag  shown  me  yesterday 
by  you.  It  affords  me  pleasure  to  comply  with  the  request  that  I furnish  you  with  my 
opinion  of  the  sketch  as  the  model  from  which  the  National  Flag  of  the  Confederate 
States  of  North  America  may  be  made.  I must  remark,  however,  you  would  have  been 
more  fortunate  had  you  selected  some  one  better  versed  in  the  science  pertaining  to  the 
subject  than  myself.  The  model  is  made  of  silk,  but  contemplates  the  use  of  bunting 
as  the  material  of  the  Flag  itself.  The  Flag  consists  of  six  stripes  of  scarlet  and  white 
placed  alternately ; in  the  upper  staff  corner  there  is  a blue  field,  on  which  is  displayed 
the  arrangement  of  stars,  which  constitutes  not  the  only,  but  certainly  the  most  signifi- 
cant, part  of  your  device.  These  are  the  following : First,  a very  large  six-pointed  star 
placed  in  the  centre  of  the  field  ; and,  secondly,  at  the  intervals  between  the  points  of 
this  large  star,  are  six  smaller  stars,  each  composed  of  six  points.  -You  have  told  me 
that  the  position  of  the  smaller  stars  in  relation  to  the  larger  (whether  opposite  the 
points  or  at  the  intervals),  as  also  the  place  on  the  entire  Flag  that  the  blue  field  with 
white  stars  should  occupy,  is  a matter  of  indifference,  so  far  as  the  main  idea  and  signifi- 
cance of  your  device  is  concerned,  and  that  you  are-also  indifferent  as  to  whether  the 
series  should  begin  or  end  with  a white  or  a scarlet  stripe. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  13 

I am  much  gratified  to  state  that,  at  the  first  glance,  your  model  struck  me  with  its 
marked  appropriateness  and  clear  meaning,  and  the  more  carefully  I have  considered 
it,  the  more  strongly  have  I been  impressed  with  its  plain  and  comprehensive  signifi- 
cance. It  possesses  the  rare  and  valuable  quality  of  a most  suggestive  and  fertile  com- 
plexity, -without  either  confusion,  obscurity,  or  involvement  of  elements.  Both  in  out- 
line and  in  detail,  whether  viewed  from  a distance  or  more  nearly,  in  its  parts  or  as  a 
whole,  I am  pleased  to  find  that  it  possesses  advantages  over  all  other  conceptions  I 
have  as  yet  heard  of  as  models  for  the  proposed  National  Emblem. 

It  is  said  that  the  superlative  degree  has  been  expressed  by  eastern  nations  in  a 
repetition  of  the  principal  idea  qualifying  the  object.  Your  device,  though  abounding 
in  a multiplication  of  symbols,  thus  repeating  and  giving  prominence  to  its  funda- 
mental idea,  is  yet  not  the  less  ready  and  easy  of  interpretation,  thus:  the  six  stripes 
on  the  bunting,  the  six  points  of  the  large  central  star,  and  also  the  six  points  of  each 
of  the  six  lesser  stars,  are  designed  to  be  permanent,  commemorating,  with  a repeated 
and  multiplied  significance,  by  three  distinct  methods,  the  six  original  States,  whose 
delegates  in  the  first  Congress  of  the  Confederacy  solemnly  committed  them  to  the 
founding  of  a great  Southern  Nation.  This  repetition  of  the  important  idea  of  the 
number  of  the  original  States  coincides  with  the  same  point  observed  in  the  National 
Flag  of  the  United  States,  of  which  we  recently  constituted  a part.  Your  Flag,  in  this 
particular,  presents  the  advantage  over  the  United  States  Flag,  as  this  commemoration 
is  not  only  triple,  but  unchanging,  whereas,  in  the  old  Flag  it  is  at  present  indicated  by 
only  the  thirteen  stripes,  the  number  of  stars  having  been  greatly  increased  and  the 
points  of  the  stars  having  never  had  any  reference  to  the  subject. 

The  idea  presented  in  the  large  central  six-pointed  star  is  very  happy  and  appropriate, 
impressing  the  beholder,  at  a glance,  with  the  image  of  a consolidated  Republic  of  six 
component  parts.  The  smaller  stars,  clustering  around  the  great  national  orb  after  the 
manner  of  satellites,  are,  like  all  the  other  features  of  your  device,  of  a multiplied 
significance.  Firstly,  they  are  the  bright  elements  of  a consolidated  whole,  so  homo- 
geneous and  consistent  that  they  together  compose,  when  fused  into  one,  a magnificent 
counterpart  of  each  of  its  integral  constituents  ; and,  secondly,  the  difference  in  magni- 
tude between  the  great  star  and  those  surrounding  it  unavoidably  suggests  the  appro- 
priate figure  from  the  Physical  Universe,  viz.,  that  of  satellites  revolving  around  and 
drawn  towards  the  larger  congenial  mass  as  its  centre  of  attraction. 

An  advantage  which  I further  think  well  worthy  of  consideration  is  that  any  num- 
ber of  the  smaller  six-pointed  stars  may  symmetrically  cluster  around  the  central  one 
till  all  the  Southern  States  are  added  to  the  Confederacy.  At  present  each  star,  repre- 
senting an  integral  State,  is  placed  between  the  points  of  the  central  or  ‘*  Confederate 
star,”  and  all  these  places  are  already  occupied  ; but,  in  like  manner,  suitable  positions, 
on  the  points  or  elsewhere,  may  be  selected  till  every  Southern  star  adds  its  brilliancy 
to  our  national  firmament. 

I have  thus,  my  dear  sir,  given  you  my  impression  of  your  truly  ingenious  device. 
To  the  apprehension  of  others  cultivated  in  this  particular  art,  in  which  I have  no  pre- 
tension, I have  little  doubt  the  close  study  of  your  Flag  will  prove  even  more  fruitful 
and  suggestive  than  it  has  to  me. 

I could  add  to  what  is  expressed  above  other  views  which  I forbear  to  dwell  on. 
They  are  indicative  rather  of  my  own  personal  preference,  and  might  fail  to  have  the 


14  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


same  weight  with  our  national  committee,  to  whose  wisdom  and  judgment  is  confided 
the  award,  as  they  have  with  me  ; yet,  perhaps  not.  I refer  to  the  impoi-tant  feature 
that  your  Flag,  though  sufficiently  peculiar  to  give  national  individuality  to  the  emblem, 
still  possesses  the  attribute  of  retaining  all  the  hallowed  associations  which,  both  at 
home  and  abroad,  have  for  years  in  every  American  breast  clustered  around  “the  stars 
and  stripes  ” of  a nation  once  the  most  glorious  the  world  ever  beheld ; and  of  that 
nation  we  ourselves  and  all  the  world  cannot  fail  to  remember  that  the  Southern  States 
were  but  lately  its  proudest  element , blest  in  its  privileges,  blest  in  its  wide-spread  fra- 
ternal love,  and  equal  in  the  possession  of  all  its  common  glories,  ,past,  present,  and 
prospective. 

I am,  dear  sir,  very  faithfully,  yours, 

HENRY  T.  CAMPBELL. 


Retreat,  St.  Simon’s  Island,  February  13,  1861. 

Hon.  Robert  Toombs, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

My  Dear  Sir  : My  son,  Henry  Lord  King,  visits  Montgomery  for  the  purpose  of 
obtaining  a captain’s  commission  in  the  Army  of  the  Confederate  States.  If  you  can 
aid  him  in  the  attainment  of  his  wishes,  you  will  confer  a lasting  obligation  on  me. 

I enclose  herewith  a drawing  of  a Flag  which  I think  very  appropriate  for  our  new 
Government.  The  number  of  stars  surrounding  the  phenis  will,' of  course,  be  reduced 
to  seven  until  other  States  join  the  present  number.  If  you  think  it  worthy  of  notice, 
please  hand  it  to  the  committee. 

The  motto  of  Surgo  Lucidias  would  be  very  proper.  Yet  I incline  to  think  the 
old  motto  E pluribus  unum  is  quite  as  applicable  to  us  as  to  the  old  Union. 

In  much  haste,  very  sincerely,  yours, 

T.  BUTLER  KING. 

[See  Plates  XXVI,  XXVII,  XXVIII,  XXIX,  XXX.] 


New  Orleans,  La.,  February  13,  1861. 


Dear  Miles:  I have  been  thinking  about  the  Flag,  and  no  doubt  you  will  have  a 
thousand  propositions.  I don’t  like  the  cross.  It  is  significant  of  Catholic  rule,  and, 
besides,  had  too  much  to  do  with  the  machinery  of  the  dark  ages. 

The  old  stars  must,  I think,  be  abandoned.  They  belong  to  night,  and  besides,  the 
North  will  keep  them,  &c.  It  is  morning  with  us. 

The  stripes  are  distinctive  and  ought  to  be  preserved  ; but  let  there  be  seven 
stripes,  one  for  each  of  the  original  States,  as  the  thirteen  were  for  the  original  States 
of  the  old  Confederacy.  Suppose  these  stripes  be  vertical  instead  of  horizontal. 

The  ground  of  the  Flag,  by  all  means,  blue.  In  place  of  the  stars  put  a globe, 
and  indicate  upon  it  the  middle  and  tropical  latitudes.  Instead  of  indicating  the 
number  of  States  by  stars  as  they  come  in  hereafter,  do  it  by  points,  thus  , beginning 
with  seven.  These  are  rough  suggestions  on  the  spur  of  the  moment.  God  bless  you. 

Your  friend, 


J.  D.  B.  De  BOW. 


[See  Plate  XXXI. ] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


15 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  13,  1861. 

Hon.  William  Porcher  Miles, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Dear  Sir:  You  will  doubtless  recognize  some  of  the  following  mottoes,  which  I 
take  the  liberty  of  suggesting  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag,  Seal,  &c.  On  an  occasion 
like  the  present,  the  advice  of  Cicero  is  appropriate : UE  variis  sumendum  est  optimum .” 

Mottoes. 

Administrare  non  imperare. 

Australis  reget  Australem. 

Astra  castra , Numen  lumen , numinern. 

Auxilium  ab  alto. 

Jure  fortis. 

J'ai  bonne  cause. ' 

Je  maintiendrai  le  droit. 

Je  veux  le  droit. 

Malo  mori  quam  fcederi. 

Revirescimus. 

Rinasce  piu  glorioso. — It  rises  again  more  glorious.  (Allusion  to  the  phenix 
originally,  but  not  altogether  inappropriate  to  our  purpose. ) 

Spero  meliora. 

Sub  cruce  Candida.  (Egmont,  E.) 

Sublimiora  petamus.  (Starhouse,  Bl.) 

Vestigia  nulla  retrorsum. 

Si  Deus  nobiscum,  quis  contra  nos. 

Per  orbem. 

Pro  aris  et  focis. 

Dieu  defend  le  droit. 

Auspicium  melioris  oevi. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  13,  1861. 

Hon.  William  Porcher  Miles, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

Sir  : I have  the  honor  to  present  to  you  a design  for  the  Flag  which  is  destined  to 
wave  over  the  glorious  Confederate  States  of  America.  Being  one  of  the  committee 
from  my  own  State,  I feel  that  you  will  take  an  interest  in  it  none  the  less  from  the 
fact  that  the  design  comes  from  a planter  of  St.  Andrew’s  Parish,  S.  C.  Therefore  I 
enclose  it,  hoping  it  will  not  be  too  late  for  a comparison  with  those  that  have  already 
been  presented. 

As  you  will  perceive,  the  field  of  the  Flag  is  blue.  The  large  star  in  the  centre 
represents  the  Confederacy ; the  rays  or  stripes  radiating  from  the  central  star,  the  six 
States  which  now  form  it  never  to  be  increased  in  number  on  the  admission  of  new 
States.  Each  State  is  also  represented  by  a small  star,  aud,  as  our  number  is  grad- 
ually increased,  for  each  addition  will  a new  star  be  placed  on  our  banner  whose 
brightness  shall  lend  increased  lustre  to  that  central  one  to  whose  glorious  light  they 


16  CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


all  conduce.  I fear  that  this  may  reach  you  too  late,  but  should  it  become  our  National 
Flag,  though  the  design  is  not  my  own,  yet  the  honor  of  having  drawn  it  and  been  in 
any  way  conducive  to  its  adoption  will  be  one  proudly  claimed  by  a 

“CITADEL  CADET.” 

[See  Plate  XXXII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  13,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  At  my  father’s  request,  I enclose  you  a design  of  his  for  the  Flag  of 
our  Southern  Confederacy.  The  communication  accompanying  it  was  originally  sent 
to  the  Mercury , but,  owing  probably  to  the  press  on  the  columns  of  that  journal,  has 
not  been  published. 

Hoping  that  you  will  pardon  the  liberty  I have  taken  of  intruding  on  your  time,  I 
remain,  with  great  respect, 

Yours, 


G.  W.  ALEXANDER. 


[Design  and  letter  missing.] 


Mobile,  Ala.,  February  13,  1861. 

General  C.  J.  McRae. 

My  Dear  Sir  : You  are  on  the  committee  to  adopt  Flag,  &c.  Pray  do  not  give 
up  the  Stars  and  Stripes  to  the  North.  It  is  ours  as  fully  as  it  is  theirs.  It  is  hallowed 
by  associations  and  memories,  and  is  dear  to  every  military  and  naval  officer,  every 
soldier  and  tar,  and  every  citizen  who  has  seen  it  float  in  a foreign  land.  Keep  the 
stripes,  keep  the  azure  field  and  a star  for  each  sovereignty  in  the  constellation,  and 
then  distinguish  it  by  a red  cross  (the  Southern  Cross)  cutting  the  stripes  at  right  angles. 
This  is  a very  important  matter.  The  songs  of  a nation  and  its  Flag  have  a prodigious 
moral  influence. 

Yours,  in  great  haste, 

T.  J.- FORSYTH. 


[See  Plate  XXXIII. ] 


Design  submitted  by Stewart,  February  14,  1861. 

The  advantage  is  that  whether  displayed  or  not,  it  can  be  distinguished  with  cer- 
tainty from  afar. 

[See  Plate  XXXIV.] 


197  Ninth  Avenue.  New  York, 

February  14,  1861. 

Walter  Brooke,  Esq.,  M.  C. 

Sir:  I take  the  liberty  of  sending  you  two  plans  of  Flags  similar  to  the  United 
States,  but  can  be  readily  distinguished  from  it  at  any  distance.  If  accepted,  I shall 
feel  honored. 

I remain,  sir,  your  obedient  servant, 

WALTER  CECIL  HASKEY, 

Late  of  Her  Majesty's  Third  Light  Dragoons. 

[Designs  missing.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  17 


W.  Porcheu  Miles,  Esq. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  14,  1861. 


Dear  Sir:  A resident  of  Charleston,  heartily  endorsing  your  opinion  that  in 
selecting  a Flag  for  our  Southern  Confederacy  the  “stars  and  stripes”  should  be 
avoided  as  being,  at  least  to  us,  the  emblem  of  insult,  tyranny,  and  oppression,  begs 
leave  to  offer,  as  suitable  for  the  Flag  of  our  young  Republic,  this  design.  It  claims  to 
be  the  emblem  of  perfect  equality,  strength,  and  unity.  The  stars  surrounding  the 
centre  indicate  that  the  States  will  keep  a watchful  eye  upon  their  creature,  as  well  as 
sustain  and  support  it  in  every  emergency. 

Your  position  on  the  committee  to  report  on  a suitable  Flag,  your  constant  loyalty 
to  the  South  and  aversion  to  the  emblem  of  a corrupt  Government,  induces  this  com- 
munication, and  the  hope  that  this  design  will  coincide  with  your  views  and  receive 
your  favorable  notice. 


Respectfully, 


“SOUTHRON.” 


<♦ 

[From  the  Charleston  Courier,  February  15, 1861.] 

The  Southern  Flag. — We  have  before  us  many  sketches  of  devices  and  designs 
that  have  been  sent  by  ladies  and  gentlemen  of  this  city  for  the  Flag  of  the  “ Confed- 
erate States  of  America.”  It  is  gratifying  to  note  the  interest  taken  in  this  question 
by  our  citizens,  and  so  far  as  we  have  observed  specimens,  nothing  has  yet  been  pro- 
posed that  would  not  be  acceptable  to  good  taste.  The  “ Southern  Cross  ” is  a favorite 
with  many  citizens  whose  opinions  have  reached  us,  and  has  been  presented  in  a variety 
of  forms  by  a gentleman  of  this  city,  who  proposed  it,  we  believe,  soon  after,  if  not 
before,  the  secession  of  South  Carolina. 

On  Thursday  evening  we  were  permitted  to  examine  a model  Flag,  which  exhibits 
novelty  and  expressiveness.  It  is  the  work  of  some  ladies,  whose  hearts  and  hands  are 
ever  ready  for  the  South,  and  it  is  sufficiently  described  in  the  following  note: 

Messieurs  Editors  : In  forming  a Flag  for  our  Southern  Confederacy,  it  seems 
expedient  and  proper  to  have  a device  which  will  express  the  political  equality,  strength, 
and  intimate  connection  of  those  States,  as  well  as  the  utter  exclusion  of  all  others  not 
holding  like  principles  as  ourselves.  Beasts  and  birds  of  prey  should  be  carefully 
avoided.  The  paw  of  the  British  Lion  was  once  stretched  to  crush  us  ; and  what  has 
the  American  Eagle  done  but  rend  us  with  its  talons  and  tear  us  with  its  beak?  And 
so  soon  as  we  intimate  that  the  dark  pall  of  its  wings  shall  no  longer  overshadow  us,  it 
hurls  its  thunderbolts  in  wrath  over  our  heads. 

The  Cross  has  been  suggested  as  a suitable  emblem ; but  this  is  the  sign  of  good- 
will from  God  to  man,  too  sacred  to  wave  as  the  sign  of  political  contest,  and  there 
could  be  no  propriety  in  battling  under  that  sacred  symbol  for  earthly  fame  or  power. 

I propose,  as  a suitable  device  for  our  Southern  Banner,  a field  of  crimson ; in  the 
center,  a circle  or  ring  of  white  (significant  of  the  perfect  equality  of  the  States  and 
their  unity  of  action) — this  ring  to  be  surrounded  by  white  stars,  one  for  each  State. 


18  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

This  device  is  altogether  unlike  any  National  Flag  in  use,  will  be  distinguishable  at  a 
great  distance,  and  is  of  the  most  durable  colors. 

Each  State  seceding  in  the  future  will  claim  position  for  its  star  in  this  galaxy. 

“SOUTHRON.” 

This  Flag  will  be  expressed  for  Montgomery  this  day. 

[See  Plate  XXXV.] 


Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  14,  18(51. 
Committee  on  the  Flag,  Southern  Congress. 


Gentlemen  : Please  permit  me,  a friend  of  the  Southern  Confederacy,  to  propose 
for  your  consideration  the  following  Flag,  say : a blue  and  white  striped  Flag,  with 
seven  or  more  red  stars  on  a white  field,  with  a blue  dove  with  an  olive  branch  in  her 
mouth,  wings  extended,  perched  upon  a rock  on  the  white  field. 

Yours  truly, 

A CITIZEN  AND  FRIEND. 


[See  Plate  XXXVI.] 


Hon.  R.  W.  Barnwell. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  14,  1861. 


Dear  Sir  : As  the  idea  of  embodying  a (Southern)  Cross  in  the  Flag  of  the  Con- 
federacy has  not  met  with  much  approval  here,  I would  ask  the  favor  of  you  to  stay 
any  proceedings  of  decision  thereon  until  I can  forward  a specimen  copy  of  a Flag, 
which,  I think,  will  meet  the  approval  of  all. 

I will  have  it  forwarded  by  to-morrow’s  mail — 1:30  p.  m. 

Respectfully,  &e., 


“A  FELLOW-CITIZEN.” 


P.  S. — -I  shall  send  a few  remarks  with  the  specimen. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  15,  1861. 

Hon.  R.  W.  Barnwell. 

Dear  Sir  : I enclose  herewith  a specimen  copy  or  design  of  a Flag  for  our  South- 
ern Confederacy,  which  I trust  will  be  submitted  with  the  following  remarks : 

I consider  that  the  occupation  of  only  one-half  the  field  of  the  Flag  by  the  stripes 
will  be  entirely  sufficient  to  distinguish  it  from  the  Federal  Flag,  at  the  same  time  pre- 
serving the  character  of  the  American  colors — the  number  of  stripes  always  to  be 
confined  to  the  original  six,  representing  the  States  which  formed  the  Confederacy. 
This  would  obviate  any  future  increase  in  the  size  of  the  Flag.  Perhaps  we  should 
feel  bound  to  preserve  the  stripes  in  any  form  of  Flag,  from  the  fact  that  they  were  so 
insultingly  repudiated  by  the  Abolitionists  on  more  than  one  occasion  ; but  the  South 
has  inaugurated  the  dawn  of  too  high  a destiny  for  her  motives  now  to  be  affected  by 
the  dastardly  impulses  of  assassins  and  thieves.  Nor  should  we  allow  our  feelings  to 
connect  with  the  stars  and  stripes  the  idea  of  oppression,  as  the  same  conviction  should 
cause  us  to  be  true  to  ourselves  and  not  to  be  too  much  influenced  by  outside  impres- 
sions— sufficient  that  they  were  not  originated  with  that  idea,  nor  that  idea  with  then- 
adoption. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  19 


The  circular  cluster  of  six  stars  would  represent  the  number  of  States  now  in,  and 
could  be  increased  as  other  States  fell  into  line.  A circular  cluster  of  stars  would  be 
emblematic  of  the  “Southern  Crown,”  so  far  preferable  to  the  Cross,  which  has  been 
objected  to  by  many  as  of  too  sectarian  an  aspect;  and  the  circle  will  also  represent  the 
perpetuity  of  our  conformation,  institution,  and  intention. 

I trust,  sir,  that  these  considerations  may  cause  the  enclosed  design  to  promote  the 
continuous  harmony  of  your  honorable  body,  as  well  as  of  the  people  of  this  Confed- 
eracy, if  adopted. 

A want  of  time  has  prevented  me  from  procuring  a better  prepared  copy,  and  I 
hope  that  its  roughness  will  be  excused. 

With  respect,  I remain,  your  obedient  servant, 

A CITIZEN,  AND  NULLIFIER  SINCE  1830. 

P.  S. — My  name  is  at  your  service.  Should  you  not  think  the  specimen  Flag 
worthy  of  being  submitted,  I should  be  very  glad  if  a better  copy  of  it  should  be  made, 
by  an  artist,  if  possible,  and  I will  pay  the  expense. 

Design  for  a Confederacy  Flag. 

The  six  stripes  to  represent  the  six  States  which  formed  the  Confederacy.  The 
centre  star  is  the  Constitution,  around  which  they  will  cluster  as  they  come  in. 

[See  Plate  XXXVII.] 

Savannah,  Ga.,  February  15,  1861. 

Hon.  F.  S.  Bartow, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  I send  for  your  consideration  a design  for  our  National 
Flag,  presented  by  my  father,  which  has  suggested  itself  to  some  of  us  here  as  being 
the  most  appropriate  as  yet  seen.  We  are  all  well,  and  unite  in  kind  remembrances. 
Nothing  new  in  the  city.  When  will  your  present  labors  probably  be  brought  to  a 
close? 

Respectfully  and  sincerely,  yours, 

CHARLES  C.  JONES,  Jr. 

[Design  missing.] 


“Delta”  Editorial  Room, 

New  Orleans,  February  15,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  Biiooke, 

Montgomery,  Ala. 

Sir  : At  the  suggestion  of  your  friend,  Judge  Walker,  my  confrere,  I enclose  you 
a design  which  I have  prepared  as  the  National  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America,  and  beg  of  you  to  submit  it  to  the  Committee  on  a National  Flag. 

EUGENE  WYTHE  BAYLOR. 


[See  Plate  XXXVIII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  15,  1861. 

Hon.  Wm.  Porcher  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  I send  to  you  this  day  (under  cover  to  you),  through  Mr.  Memmiifger, 
a Flag  which  was  handed  me  yesterday  by  some  ladies  of  Charleston  as  a design  for 


20  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


our  Southern  National  Flag.  The  originality  and  correct  idea  conveyed  by  the  design 
I think  must  insure  for  the  parties  who  designed  it  a fair  place  in  the  picture,  and  I 
think  that  in  point  of  utility  it  cannot  be  surpassed,  as  it  must  be  seen  at  a great 
distance  at  sea  : and  the  fact  that  it  ignores  all  former  appearances  and  signs  makes  it 
a distinct  and  novel  Flag,  fit  to  be  inaugurated  with  the  birth  of  a new  Republic. 
Here  I must  leave  the  balance  to  your  kindness,  feeling  that  that  spirit  of  correct 
feeling  which  has  always  guided  you  and  carried  you  through  all  of  your  political  and 
private  life  will  be  now  exercised  ; and,  wishing  you  a pleasant  time  at  our  present  seat 
of  Government,  I remain, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  W.  WHITE. 

[See  Plate  XXXIX.] 


New  Orleans,  La.,  February  15,  1861. 


Description. 


Thirteen  stripes,  red  and  white;  union  blue,  with  a white  cross  and  seven  stars. 

Designation.- — The  thirteen  stripes  have  a trifold  representation:  1st,  they  repre- 
sent the  original  States  ; 2d,  red  and  white  are  the  colors  of  virtue  and  valor ; and  3d, 
the  six  stripes  into  which  the  union  is  inserted  represent  the  six  States  represented  at 
the  opening  of  the  Southern  Congress  at  Montgomery.  The  union,  blue,  represents 
fidelity;  the  cross,  consisting  of  five  square  blocks  in  the  centre,  represents  the  Southern 
Cross,  and  by  its  formation  cannot  be  confounded  with  any  religious  design — it  has  as 
much  the  form  of  that  constellation  as  the  latter  has  the  semblance  of  any  other  imagi- 
nary cross ; it  also  is  the  emblem  of  a compact  firmly  cemented  together  in  the  midst 
of  fidelity  and  good  faith,  arched  by  the  emblems  of  the  seven  seceding  States. 

F.  HOLZAC. 


[See  Plate  XL.] 


Germantown,  Shelby  County,  Tenn., 

February  15,  1801. 

His  Excellency  General  Jefferson  Davis, 

President  of  the  Southern  Confederacy. 

Dear  Sir  : I see  by  the  papers  the  Southern  Congress  have  appointed  a committee 
to  select  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy. 

How  would  this  arrangement  of  the  stars  suit? 

The  design,  as  you  will  see,  includes  all  the  Southern  States,  but  as  they  have  not 
all  joined  the  Confederacy,  the  places  canjie  left  vacant  for  them  or  others — new  States. 
In  the  centre  you  find  a space  for  Liberty,  to  be  surmounted  by  a scroll — In  uno 
quindecim  juncta.  The  lines  joining  the  stars  represent  the  equality  of  the  States  and 
thei*  unity  of  interests,  while  the  band  around  the.m  represents  the  Southern  Confed- 
eracy surrounding  and  protecting  the  whole. 


CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  21 

Pray  excuse  my  trespass  on  your  valuable  time,  and  if  you  condemn  the  design, 
put  it  in  the  fire.  Through  an  unwillingness  to  thrust  myself  before  the  eyes  of  the 
great,  I respectfully  request  you  to  overlook  my  not  signing  the  above. 

[See  Plate  XLI.] 


Charleston,  S.  C., 

February  15,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  Porcher  Miles. 

Dear  Sir  : Allow  me  to  suggest  a few  considerations  towards  a National  Flag, 
which  I will  ask  you  to  receive  as  between  ourselves,  accepting  or  rejecting  them  as 
they  may  meet  your  views.  There  are  three  important  points  in  the  construction  of  a 
National  Flag : 

1st.  Some  device  which  can  be  recognized  at  the  greatest  possible  distance. 

2d.  Some  device  emblematical  of  our  history.  ■» 

3d.  Durability  of  colors. 

As  to  the  first,  broad  stripes,  such  as  the  French,  can  be  seen  at  the  greatest 
distance. 

As  to  the  second,  the  Flags  of  England  will  give  the  best  illustration,  being  a 
united  kingdom,  whilst  all  sections  unite  in  acknowledgment  of  the  St.  George’s  cross 
as  the  national  union  of  the  Kingdom  of  Great  Britain  ; thus  still  the  sections  which 
rally  under  the  National  Banner  of  the  union  preserve  their  sectionality — Ireland  has 
her  harp,  Scotland  her  thistle,  England  the  lion.  India  and  Australia  even  preserve 
some  historic,  sectional  device,  and  the  Royal  Ensign  of  Great  Britain  is  quartered 
with  these  sectional  insignia. 

As  to  the  third  consideration  (colors),  blue,  white,  and  red  are  the  most  durable, 
and  their  contrast  the  most  showy. 

Learning  from  our  papers  of  your  interest  in  this  matter,  I have  thought  our  old 
acquaintance  would  warrant  this  approach.  I shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  you  at  any 
time  and  on  any  subject. 

Hoping  your  restoration  to  health,  for  your  own  sake  as  well  as  your  country’s,  I 
remain, 

Yours,  very  truly, 

JOHN  LAURENS. 


P.  S. — I suggest  No.  1 for  a National  and  No.  2 for  a National  and  Sectional  Flag. 
The  device  is  a broad,  red  cross  upon  a blue  field,  and  can  be  easily  seen  at  a distance. 
The  blue  field  is  emblematic  (as  the  purest  color)  of  the  truth  of  our  cause,  bearing  its 
red  cross  in  token  of  our  faith  unto  death.  The  National  Flag,  made  sectional,  as  in 
No.  2,  by  the  State  emblem  in  the  upper  and  inner  square,  is  intended  for  localities 
within  the  Confederacy,  such  as  State  capitols,  forts,  custom-houses,  &c.,  and  is  an 
acknowledgment  by  the  Confederacy  of  the  confided  power  of  a sovereign  State. 


[See  Plates  XLII,  XLIIL] 


J.  L.- 


22  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


State  of  Alabama, 

February  15,  18G1. 


Chairman  Committee  on  National  Flag, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

k 

Sir:  I am  requested  by  a lady  of  Georgia  to  convey  to  you  the  within  design  for 
a National  Flag,  with  the  respectful  desire  that  it  may  claim  the  consideration  of  the 
honorable  body  of  w'hich  you  are  chairman.  Should  it  not  be  accepted,  it  is  not 
doubted  that  it  will  be  received  and  considered,  with  pleasure,  as  a mark  at  least  of 
loyalty  and  love  to  our  beloved  South,  and  an  evidence  that  she  holds  a dear  place  in 
the  hearts  and  minds  of  her  children.  Your  correspondent  much  regrets,  for  himself 
and  the  lady  whom  he  represents,  that  his  want  of  artistic  skill  prevents  him  from 
embodying  to  the  eye  of  your  committee  the  design  offered.  Nevertheless,  confiding- 
in  your  good  taste,  judgment,  and  candor,  he  proceeds  to  lay  the  design  before  you,  as 
best  he  may,  by  verbal  description  and  diagram.  The  diagram  and  description  will  be 
found  enclosed.  The  following  is  the 
<r 


Symbolic  significance. 


Obverse  side:  The  seven  colors  of  the  spectrum  suggest  (in  general)  the  rainbow — 
hence,  typical  of  Hope  and  Promise.  The  seven  colors  represent  the  seven  original 
seceding  States  in  the  order  of  their  secession.  (The  names  of  the  States  not  to  be 
inscribed  on  the  Flag,  but  written  there  in  the  diagram  by  way  of  illustration  merely.) 
These  individual  colors  represent  distinct  Sovereignty  as  opposed  to  Federalism-,  yet 
blend  as  in  the  bow — also  indicative  of  Union  and  Friendship;  the  stripes  to  occupy 
in  length  about  the  same  proportion  as,  in 'the  diagram,  to  the  body  of  the  Flag. 

The  magnolia  wreath,  typical  of  the  South,  to  which  it  is  indigenous ; its  white 
buds  and  flowers,  typical  of  purity  of  intention  and  conduct ; its  rich  leaves,  ever  green, 
emblematic  of  eternal  prosperity  and  vigor  : its  magnificence  as  a whole,  of  the  splen- 
dor and  majesty  of  the  Republic. 

If  the  field  be  white,  the  buds  and  flowers  being  also  white,  they  would  have  to  be 
painted  as  grouped  upon  the  leaves,  whose  dark,  rich  green  would  furnish  a truly 
desirable  ground  for  white  flowers  ; and  this  comports  well  with  the  wreath  .as  intended 
to  be — not  two  branches,  but  a continuous  wreath  of  uniform  size,  unbroken  and 
unending ; few  stems  to  be  introduced,  the  leaf,  bud,  and  flower,  being  the  chief 
features. 

Reverse  side:  Needs  no  explanation. 


Special  argument. 

The  magnolia  is  the  only  peculiar  Southern  symbol  sufficiently  general,  graud, 
and  susceptible  of  easy  execution,  that  can  be  adopted.  It  has  never  been  adopted, 
and,  if  now  adopted,  will  be  to  us  what  the  rose  is  to  England,  thistle  to  Scotland, 
shamrock  to  Ireland.  It  is  more  worthy  of  adoption  than  any  of  these  by  native  merit — 
in  this  respect  unsurpassed  even  by  the  Grecian  acanthus. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  23 

General  argument. 

The  first  point  to  avoid  in  a Flag  is  elaborateness  and  complexity  of  design.  These 
do  not  show  at  any  distance.  A landscape,  for  instance,  however  beautiful  as  a paint- 
ing, is  utterly  inapropos  in  a Flag.  Again,  elaborate  designs  are  difficult  to  execute ; 
hence,  the  Flag  cannot  be  got  up  cheaply,  quickly,  or  at  all,  by  the  common  people. 
An  artist  must  be  sought  every  time  a Flag  is  wanted  ; but  every  good  housewife  can 
make  a magnolia  wreath.  Witness  the  beautiful  quilts  which  we  see  among  the  middle 
classes. 

■ Second.  A Flag  must  be  a conspicuous  object,  easily  seen  and  recognized,  among 
other  Flags,  amid  the  smoke  of  battle  and  the  mists  of  the  sea.  It  is  claimed  for  this 
that  nothing  could  be  more  conspicuous  and  legible,  anywhere  and  at  all  times, 
than  either  section  of  this  Flag.  The  wreath,  which  will  be  massive — nearly  a foot 
broad  (or  at  least  natural  size  of  leaf  and  flower) — will,  by  its  shape  (on  a white  ground 
especially),  be  cognizable  at  a great  distance.  Again,  as  to  the  other  section,  the  colors 
are  as  well  adapted  as  imagination  can  conceive  to  meet  the  end  now  under  consider- 
ation. 

Third.  A Flag  should  be  bright,  gay,  cheerful.  These  colors  are  Heaven’s  own, 
and  give  us  all  the  variety  desirable,  since  they  embrace  all  colors. 

Fourth.  It  is  claimed  for  this  Flag  that  it  comes  as  near  “stars  and  stripes,” 
without  the  least  resembling  the  old  stars  and  stripes,  as  any  thing  can.  Hence,  it 
would  be  viewed  with  pleasure  by  the  good  citizens  Tvho  still  feel  a warm-heartedness 
towards  the  old  Flag. 

Of  the  field. — White  is  suggested  for  the  field  as  being  less  hackneyed  than  blue  ; 
as  more  conspicuous ; as  affording  a rich  contrast  between  the  green  wreath  of  the 
obverse  and  the  gold  stars  of  the  reverse ; as  being  easier  to  obtain  than  a good  blue ; 
as  affording  a finer  contrast  than  blue,  with  the  prismatic  stripes,  in  which  there  are 
already  three  shades  of  blue,  viz.,  violet  or  purple,  indigo,  and  blue  proper.  If  the 
reverse  field  of  the  Flag  be  thought  too  bare,  the  circle  of  stars  may  have  for  a centre  piece 
the  initial  letters  of  the  Republic,  or  the  motto  ; or,  if  these  be  not  advisable,  the  centre 
might  be  filled  with  the  gray  eagle.  (This  I do  not  myself  like,  because  it  is  very 
difficult  of  execution,  and  looks  too  much  like  imitation  of  the  old  United  States 
Flag.)  It  is  thought  that  the  motto  or  the  initials  will  sufficiently  fill  the  centre.  If 
not,  then  there  might  be  added,  “February  18,  1861,”  the  inauguration  day  of  the  first 
Executive. 

Of  the  magnolia  wreath. — The  magnolia  is  a laurel ; hence,  in  addition  to  what 
has  been  said  in  its  favor,  it  is  also  tjqpical  of  Victory  and  Success. 


24  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Should  it  be  thought  too  difficult  of  execution,  it  is  urged  that,  after  its  adoption 
as  a national  emblem,  “ magnolia  wreaths”  will  become  a staple  article  of  production 
at  the  print-works,  where  it  can  be  handsomely  printed  on  cotton,  lawn,  silk,  &c. 
France,  in  especial,  will  send  us  splendid  ones,  on  thin  silk,  which  have  only  to  be  cut 
and  transferred,  or  else  inserted  in  the  field.  At  a cost  of  two  or  three  dollars,  they 
could  be  furnished  of  full  size  required.  On--  fine  satin,  they  would  be  cheap  at  five  to 
ten  dollars. 

Of  the  motto. — 1 1 Dei  gratia"  is  an  old  motto.  We  have  often  seen  it  on  the 
British  coins — “ Victoria  regina,  D.  G."  Still  it  is  a good  motto,  and  will  be  relieved 
from  the  charge  of  being  borrowed  by  the  wider  and  deeper  application,  not  merely  to 
the  reigning  power,  as  in  Great  Britain,  but  to  the  Republic  itself.  This  motto  will  be 
peculiarly  appropriate  should  the  great  revolution  which  has  just  transpjred  be  effected 
without  bloodshed.  Such  an  event  would  be  unparalleled  in  human  history,  and  would 
deserve  to  be  attributed  to  nothing  else  short  of  “The  favor  of  God.”  But  even  if 
blood  be  the  price  of  our  liberty,  it  is  by  the  favor  of  a kind  Providence  that  we  hope 
for  victory.  This  motto  has  one  great  merit — -brevity.  Yet,  if  not  deemed  appropriate, 
because  of  its  occurrence  on  British  coin,  we  might  have  the  words  “Benigno  numine" 
which  mean  the  same  thing.  Another  good  motto,  expressive  of  trust  in  God,  is 
“ Auxilium  ab  alio ” — “Help  from  on  high.”  When  Alexander  Hamilton  returned 
home,  after  the  formation  and  adoption  of  the  Constitution,  a distinguished  clergyman 
said  to  him  : “ Why,  Mr.  Hamilton,  you  have  entirely  failed  to  recognize  the  Supreme 
Being.”  “Sir,”  said  Hamilton,  in  a tone  that  owned  the  error,  “the  fact  is,  we  forgot 
it.”  Now,  may  it  please  the  honorable  committee  to  think  of  this  text  in  connection — 
“In  the  name  of  our  God  will  we  set  up  our  banners.”  Unless  I am  misinformed,  the 
Southern  Banner  [Confederacy?]  will  be  the  first  in  human  history,  the  wide  world  over 
(should  “ Dei  gratia  ” be  adopted),  thus  to  set  up  a banner. 

Of  the  arrangement  of  the  stars. — Opinions  have  been  given  in  favor  of  a 
Crown  and  a Cross,  after  the  constellations. 

The  Crown  is  known  to  astronomers  as  the  “Northern  Crown.”  Verbum  sap. 

The  Cross,  known  as  the  “Southern  Cross,”  consists  mainly  of  five  stars — one  of 
the  first  magnitude,  two  of  the  second, *one  of  the  third,  one  of  the  fourth.  It  is  a 
heavy  tax  upon  the  imagination  to  make  a cross  of  them.  The  constellation  is  not 
visible  north  of  the  equator.  These  are  objections,  but  the  chief  objection  to  a cross 
is  the  bareness  of  the  field,  right  and  left,  beneath  the  cross-bar,  and  also  the  difficulty 
of  adding  new  stars  as  new  States  come  in.  Stars  in  cluster  or  in  circle  best  answer 
all  the  ends  to  be  subserved. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  25 


All  tilings  considered,  it  is  deemed  best  to  have  both  fields  adorned  with  circles — 
one  of  magnolia,  the  other  of  stars.  For  centres,  these  are:  Motto,  initial  letters 
C.  S.  A.,  date  of  adoption  of  Constitution,  or  date  of  first  presidential  inauguration. 
All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 


[See  Plates  XLIV,  XLV.] 


“A  GEORGIAN.” 


Obverse. 


RED  STRIPE. — South  Carolina. 

☆ 

K _A 

ORANGE  STRIPE.— Florida. 

☆ XT 

YELLOW  STRIPE.— Mississippi. 

GREEN  STRIPE.— Alabama. 

BLUE  STRIPE.— Georgia. 

☆ ☆ 

INDIGO  STRIPE.— Louisiana. 

VIOLET  STRIPE.— Texas. 

0 


•i 

26  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  16,  1861. 

C.  G.  Memminger,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir  : I beg  leave  to  band  you  the  above  rough  sketch  for  a Southern  National 
Flag.  I like  the  white  and  red  stripes,  as  it  so  nobly  represents  the  original  thirteen, 
to  whose  principles  we  are  firm.  I also  approve  the  blue  field,  with  a star  for  each 
State  as  she  comes  in,  with  a noble,  large  S,  of  sufficient  size  to  designate  at  a distance 
the  Confederacy.  I apologize  to  you  for  this  liberty,  yet  feel  it  a duty  to  present  my 
views. 

H. 

[See  Plate  XLVI.] 


Clarksville,  February  16,  1861. 

Hon.  A.  H.  Stephens, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

My  Dear  Sir  : I have  taken  the  liberty  of  sending  a design  for  a National  Flag  to 
you.  I wish  you  would  examine  it,  and  if  in  your  judgment  it  has  any  merit,  I wish 
you  would  submit  it,  with  the  note  of  explanation,  to  the  appropriate  committee. 

I sincerely  congratulate  you  on  your  elevation  to  the  second  place  in  the  new  Gov- 
ernment. Had  it  been  to  the  first  place,  I could  have  congratulated  you  and  the 
country  with  still  greater  cordiality.  May  you  have  all  the  wisdom  and  grace  necessary 
for  the  conspicuous  and  responsible  position  to  which  you  have  been  elevated. 

Very  truly,  your  friend, 

R.  C.  KETCHUM. 

Explanation  of  the  design  for  a National  Flag  sent  by  the  Tallulah  Institute. 

1.  The  circle  of  white  stars  around  a red  one,  representing  the  State  governments 
around  the  General  Government.  It  is  red,  to  denote  the  war-making  power;  within 
the  circle,  because  its  sphere  is  defined ; in  the  centre,  that  its  influence  may  extend 
equally  to  all  around  it.  All  on  a blue  field,  denoting  fidelity. 

2.  The  bow  commends  itself  from  the  following  considerations:  1st.  It  is  a natural 
object,  and  can  therefore  be  more  readily  distinguished,  more  readily  understood,  and 
will  be  more  uniform  in  construction  than  a fabulous  or  mythological  device.  2d. 
Being  one  of  the  most  beautiful  objects  in  nature,  it  calls  forth  admiration,  it  will 
attach  the  affections  to  it,  and  it  will  never  lose  its  interest.  3d.  It  is  the  emblem  of 
peace,  it  appears  on  the  receding  cloud,  and  hence  indicates  our  policy,. and  introduces 
us  to  the  world  as  a pacific  power.  4th.  It  is  the  emblem  of  confederation,  which  is 
our  chief  national  characteristic ; it  was  adopted,  if  not  created,  by  God  as  a token  of 
a covenant  between  Himself  and  man  ; seven  colors  unite  to  form  this  arch.  5th.  As 
we  place  special  reliance  on  the  products  of  the  earth  for  our  future  prosperity,  this 
sign  of  the  covenant  that  insures  the  regularity  of  the  season  and  that  “ seed-time  and 
harvest  shall  not  cease”  (Gen.  viii : 21,  22),  is  peculiarly  appropriate  to  us.  6th.  By 
referring  to  the  9th  chapter  of  Genesis,  it  will  be  perceived  that  there  is  a very  close 
historical  association  between  the  proclamation  of  -the  covenant  and  that  degradation 
of  Ham,  which  renders  slavery  possible,  necessary,  and  beneficent.  7th.  The  motto, 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  27 

“ In  signo  foederis  confidof  has  reference  to  the  covenant  between  God  and  man,  and 
to  the  sincerity  and  fidelity  of  the  States  tor  this  new  Confederation,  and  to  the  honor 
with  which  we  expect  to  fulfill  on  our  part,  and  exact  from  others,  all  obligations 
arising  from  treaties  with  other  powers. 

[See  Plate  XL VII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  16,  1861. 

Hon.  R.  W.  Barnwell. 

Dear  Sir  : I enclose  a design  of  the  Confederacy  Flag  sent  to  you  yesterday,  with 
a little  difference  of  arrangement  and  rather  better  prepared.  Hoping  that  it  may 
prove  acceptable, 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

A CITIZEN,  AND  NULLIFIER  SINCE  1830. 

Please  excuse  haste. 

[See  Plate  XLVIIL] 


New  Orleans,  La.,  February  16,  1861. 

His  Excellency  The  President  and  Members  of  the  Southern  Congress. 

Gentlemen  : I learn,  from  an  article  in  the  Crescent  this  morning,  that  a sugges- 
tion for  an  appropriate  Flag  for  our  Southern  Confederacy  would  be  received,  and, 
also,  that  one  similar  to  the  Flag  which  has  so  long  waved  in  peace  and  war  over  our 
beloved  country  would  be  most  acceptable.  I herewith  enclose  one  containing  all  the 
peculiarities  of  our  National  Flag,  arranged  so  as  to  symbolize  our  present  Confederacy ; 
and  here  let  me  offer  to  the  honorable  members  composing  your  responsible  body  the 
suggestion  that,  in  the  necessity  which  has  forced  upon  the  South  measures  for  self- 
protection, she  does  not  necessarily  lose  any  of  her  rights  to  the  glorious  memories  of 
the  past.  It  was  not  for  her  to  break  the  compact  which  bound  us  in  one  ; and  that 
Flag  which  has  been  carried  in  triumph,  or  followed  with,  valor  by  many  whom  I address, 
and  has  floated  on  every  sea,  will  still  cause  a throb  of  patriotism  and  invite  to  glory 
as  long  as  we  bear  the  name  of  Americans. 

Let  us  not,  honored  sirs,  leave  to  those  who  have  broken  the  Constitution  and  have 
endeavored  to  extinguish  the  Southern  stars  of  that  constellation — let  us  not  leave  to 
them  the  stripes  and  stars  endeared  by  every  association  which  can  inspire  patriotism 
or  stimulate  to  valor.  I feel  assured  that  thousands  would  add  their  voices  to  mine 
entreating  you  to  spare  to  us  at  least  the  semblance  of  our  Flag. 

In  the  model  which  I have  enclosed  I have  retained  the  old  thirteen  rays  on  which 
our  fathers  gazed. 

The  field  of  blue  is  changed  from  a square  to  a triangle,  a symbol  of  well-known 
significance  and  easily  recognized  at  a distance,  thereby  distinguishing  it  from  the  one 
still  retained  by  the  Federal  Government.  In  the  blue  field  I have  arranged  stars,  the 
present  number  of  our  States,  in  the  form  of  a cross.  These  can  be  added  to  by 
enlarging  the  cross  or  doubling  the  stars. 


28  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Should  there  be  any  objections  to  the  form  in  which  the  stars  are  arranged,  any 
other  form  may  be  selected,  retaining  the  triangular  field  as  the  distinctive  feature  of 
our  Flag. 

Very  respectfully, 


[See  Plate  XLIX.] 


MARY  E.  COLLINS  BROWN. 


Montgomery,  Ala.,  February  10,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles. 

Respected  Sir  : In  these  stirring  times  it  is  certainly  the  privilege,  perhaps  the 
duty,  of  each  citizen  to  cast  in  his  mite  in  all  matters  of  public  interest.  Understand- 
ing you  to  be  chairman  of  the  committee  to  which  is  referred  the  consideration  of 
proper  devices  for  a Flag  and  Seal  for  the  Confederacy,  now  so  gloriously  uprising,  I 
take  the  liberty  of  submitting  the  following  for  a Seal : 

A female  figure  standing  on  a globe ; at  her  feet  the  horn  of  plenty;  in  her  left 
hand  (slightly  raised)  an  olive-branch ; her  right  arm  extended,  holding,  between  her 
finger  and  thumb,  an  eagle  (full  spread)  by  the  tip  of  its  wing,  the  tendency  of  the 
eagle  being  upward. 

Explanation. 


The  female  figure  represents  the  Government;  the  eagle,  the  people.  As  the 
slight  hold  on  the  eagle  shows  the  greatest  possible  [One  entire  line  illegible.] 
grants  all  possible  liberty  to  the  people,  excepting  only  restraint  from  reverting  to  a 
state  of  nature;  and  as  the  very  slight  hold  on  the  bird  shows  that  its  restraint  is  by  its 
own  free  will,  and  from  which  it  can  at  any  time,  by  its  own  effort,  escape,  so  the 
Government,  being  the  free  and  voluntary  act  of  the  people,  may  at  any  time  be  altered 
or  abolished  at  their  own  will  and  pleasure.  The  horn  of  plenty  and  the  olive-branch 
speak  for  themselves.  The  female  figure,  standing  alone  on  the  globe,  may  piresent  the 
idea  that  our  Government  will  yet  cover  and  command  the  earth,  giving  Peace,  Plenty, 
and  Liberty  to  the  whole  world. 

Possessing  myself  no  talent  for  drawing,  I have  not  made  any  attempt  at  it. 

Very  respectfully,  your  fellow-citizen, 

W. 

[See  Plate  L.] 


Mr.  Bartow. 


Savannah,  Ga.,  February  17,  18G1. 


Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  you  will  find  design  for  a Flag.  Hearing  that  .others  were 
sending  them,  I take  the  liberty  of  sending  you  this,  my  idea  of  a Flag  for  the  South- 
ern Confederacy.  The  arrangement  of  colors  in  No.  1 I like  best. 

Very  respectfully,  &c., 

ROBERT  M.  STILES. 


[See  Plates  LI,  LII.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  29 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  17,  1861. 

Mr.  Miles:  We,  some  of  the  ladies  of  Columbia,  S.  C.,  entreat,  through  you,  the 
Southern  Congress  in  selecting  our  National  Flag  to  adopt  neither  the  “stripes”  nor 
the  “cross.”  The  device  presented  by  “ Southron,”  in  the  Charleston  Courier  of 
February  loth,  is  highly  approved  by  many  of  our  citizens. 

We  sincerely  hope  that  this  design  will  be  approved  and  adopted  as  our  standard 
by  the  Southern  Congress. 

With  much  respect, 

SOME  OF  THE  LADIES  OF  COLUMBIA. 

[See  Plate  XXXV.] 

[From  a lady  of  South  Carolina,  now  residing  in  Augusta.] 

Augusta,  Ga.,  February  17,  1861. 

Hon.  Mr.  Miles, 

South  Carolina. 

Dear  Sir:  After  reading  your  reply  to  Mr.  Brooks,  of  Mississippi,  on  Flags, 
and  finding  ycwr  views  entirely  coinciding  with  my  own  on  the  subject,  1 could  not 
withstand  the  temptation  of  placing  them  before  you.  I certainly  feel  as  deep  an 
interest  in  the  welfare  of  our  country  as  any  one  can  possibly  have.  To  prove  that  to 
you,  sir,  I have  now  two  sons  at  Fort  Moultrie — one  an  officer  and  the  other  a private — 
another  ready  at  a moment’s  notice;  they  were  two  of  the  first  to  hasten  to  the  relief 
of  their  country.  In  regard  to  the  Flags,  I have  on  canvas  a drawing  of  each  as  they 
came  from  you  ; there  are  two  from  Charleston.  I should  have  been  pleased  to  have 
had  the  honor  rest  with  the  ladies  of  Charleston  City,  but  they  should  have  remembered 
that  this  contest  is  not  with  the  Saracens,  where  the  sacred  cross  would  have  been  very 
appropriate.  It  would  not  do  to  place  the  cross  on  our  State-house,  arsenals,  ships  of 
war,  &c.  I have  still  another  objection : I presume  the  ladies  intend  it  to  represent 
the  Southern  Cross.  In  the  first  place,  it  is  too  far  south  to  be  seen  in  this  latitude;  it 
is  nearer  South  America,  and  would  be  better  suited  to  that  country.  The  ladies  repre- 
sent their  Flag  with  six  stars,  while  the  Southern  Cross  contains  but  four,  and  all  differ- 
ing in  magnitude,  when  all  should  be  on  an  equality.  Why  not  take  the  Northern 
Crown,  forever  over  our  heads,  encircled  by  a wreath?  It  would  be  equally  appropriate. 
I have  another  design  of  a Flag  and  Seal,  by  a native  of  this  city,  E.  V.  Sharpe,  an 
artist,  and  I understand  the  best  military  officer  in  the  city.  After  studying  the  design 
of  the  Flag,  I think  it  beautifully  appropriate,  and  respectfully  recommend  it  to  the 
consideration  of  yourself  and  others  of  the  Flag  and  Seal  Committee.  I will  call  your 
attention  to  another,  that  of  Mr.  Platt,  of  this  city.  You  will  perceive  that  his  design 
is  altogether  unsuited  to  the  Southern  States.  It  would  be  better  adapted  to  his  native 
home,  Liberia,  or  the  Colonization  Society,  it  being  an  almost  exact  pattern  of  their 
Flag.  There  is  no  meaning  or  sense  in  it,  that  I can  perceive.  I see  that  Professor 
Campbell  has  given  him  (or  rather  his  Flag)  quite  a puff,  I understand  at  Mr.  Platt’s 
particular  request.  The  Doctor  is  affable  and  obliging  to  the  ladies,  but  I did  not  think 
he  would  go  so  far  as  to  puff  a Flag  he  certainly  could  not  have  seen.  I am  not  person- 
ally acquainted  with  Mr.  Platt,  but  I know  he  was  strongly  opposed  to  the  secession 
movement  throughout  the  whole  contest,  and  his  design  for  a Flag  proves  that  he  has 
not  altered  his  views — in  politics  at  least.  I pray  that  the  gentlemen  of  the  Committee 


30  CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


on  the  Flag  and  Seal  will  give  the  preference  of  design  to  a true  Southerner,  and  that 
I may  have  the  pleasure  of  presenting  it  first  to  the  committee.  I trust  you  will  not 
ascribe  this  to  boldness  on  the  pai-t  of  myself,  but  rather  to  the  pure  love  that  I bear 
towards  my  country  and  countrymen. 

Yours,  very  respectfully. 

“CAROLINIAN.” 

[See  Plates  XI,  XXV.] 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  17,  1861. 

TV  7T  7T 

It  has  been  suggested  that  the  design  of  the  Flag  (which  goes  by  Monday’s  express) 
would  be  suitable  for  a civic  banner,  but  not  for  an  Army  or  Navy  Flag,  which  must  be 
made  of  bunting.  A painting  will  not  suit  for  rough  weather,  and  is  not  distinguish- 
able so  far  as  contrasted  colors  on  large  .spaces.  The  design  may  do  for  the  Seal. 
These  words  [The  Confederate  States  of  North  America]  are  the  name  of  the 
Southern  Confederacy,  as  S.  P.  Q.  R.  were  the  initials  of  the  name  of  the  Roman 
Government,  in  its  own  language.  No  Latin  mottoes.  Rome  had  none.  They  did  very 
well  enough  wThen  banners  were  consecrated  by  churchmen  whose  language  it  was.  The 
days  of  chivalry  are  gone,  and  reading  and  writing  pretty  general. 


In  this,  the  stripes  are  badly  placed — 
They  were  not  so  designed — 

Th’  engraver,  being  urged  to  haste, 

' T i s right  to  be  resigned. 

'Twill  do  to  show  what  was  intended. 

The  square  was  only  sent 
To  him  ; the  stripes  may  yet  be  mended, 
If  Congress  should  consent. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  31 


To  the  Congress  of  the  Confederated  States  of  America  ( with  the  design  of  a Flag ) : 

Dishonor  not  our  great  and  ancient  Flag ! — 

That  banner  which,  through  fields  of  blood, 

O’er  all  the  States  triumphant  waved 
Where  Britain’s  angry  lion  raved 
And  Freedom’s  noble  army  braved 
The  storms  of  war ; where  true  men  stood 
And  Independence’  cause  made  good — 

Which  traitors  strive  in  foul  disgrace  to  drag. 

Its  sacred  stripes  are  from  our  Father’s  arms — 

The  hero  chieftain,  good  and  grand, 

Our  great  immortal  Washington  ! 

Who  Liberty  in  battle  won, 

And  sired  a nation  as  her  son! 

Oh  ! never  from  our  loyal  hand 
Shall  fall  that  banner  of  our  land — 

And  ever  it  shall  shine  through  war’s  alarms. 

Its  field  of  blue — the  color  of  the  skies — 

Our  souls  lifts  up  the  earth  above ; 

Though  force  may  beat  us  down  to  dust, 

We’ll  faithful  bear  our  Flag,  and  trust 
In  Heaven — all  supreme  and  just! 

True  to  that  ensign  of  our  love, 

Like  knight  of  old  to  plighted  glove, 

And  honor  win  where’er  that  banner  flies. 

Those  glorious  stars,  each  separate,  bright 
Emblems  of  Truth  and  people  free, 

Shall  still  in  constellation  shine ; 

Though  fallen  some,  from  wrath  divine, 

For  fraud  and  wrong,  we’ll  them  entwine 
With  wreath  of  leaves  from  laurel  tree, 

The  symbols  of  our  victory 

And  Independence!  won  from  Britain’s  might. 

That  wreath  in  glory  will  together  bind 
Those  stars  which,  true  in  honor,  stand 
Under  our  God’s  all-seeing  eye, 

Set  firmly  in  the  azure  sky ; 

Nor  shall  apart  in  discord  fly, 

Sustained  by  His  Almighty  hand, 

Invincible  o’er  sea  and  land — 

On  cross  proclaiming  peace  to  all  mankind. 

That  cross  which  Malta’s  knights  in  glory  bore 
Through  all  their  holy,  valiant  fight 
Against  the  Saracen  and  Moor; 

Who,  with  gross  lust  and  tumult’s  roar, 

Did  over  Southern  Europe  pour, 

In  the  war  of  Christian  right 
With  Mahomet’s  infernal  might — 

Heroes!  who  did  by  battle  God  adore. 

Then  all  the  world  our  Southern  Flag  shall  see — 

Of  sov’reign  States  confederate, 

To  ancient  honor  faithful,  true, 

Giving  to  God  our  homage  due ; 

Under  our  stars  and  stripes  and  blue 
Awaiting,  calm,  the  storms  of  Fate, 

With  people  warlike,  peaceful,  great, 

All — Independent,  Sovereign,  and  Free! 

[See  Pi.ates  LIII,  LIV.] 


/ 


32  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


This  sketch  needs  some  explanation  : 

Th'  engraver’s  block  and  printer’s  types 
Made  their  best  representation. 

Of  white  and  red  should  be  the  stripes. 

The  Maltese  cross  is  gilt,  and  blue 
The  rest  of  jack  ; the  stars  of  bright 
Red  color — quite  enough,  though  few. 

The  equilateral  is  white. 


A Second  Thought. 

While  we  preserve  the  stars  and  stripes  and  blue 
Of  Freedom’s  ancient  Flag,  it  will  not  do 
To  have  a picture,  with  rich  colors  bright, 

For  the  stormy  sea  or  a hard-fought  fight ; 

It  must  be  made  of  the  sailor’s  bunting — 

A loose,  and  strong,  and  hardy  something — 

With  colored  pieces,  large  and  in  contrast, 
Distinguishable  in  the  roughest  blast, 

And  quickly  known  by  all,  from  distance  far, 
Whether  its  language  be  of  Peace  or  War. 

The  white  triangle  which  divides  the  blue 
Is  symbolic  of  Faith  and  Justice  true; 

Its  several  sides  of  the  essentials,  three, 

Of  States — Sovereign,  Independent,  Free, 

Which  by  their  compact  are  confederate — 

Equals,  as  the  triangle  seems  to  state. 

Since  banners  are  for  war  designed,  ’tis  right 
The  stars  should  glow  with  Mars’  red  planet  light; 
Their  color  tells  of  courage,  without  fear  ; 

The  figures  equilateral  appear, 

On  cross,  and  stars,  and  field,  and  everywhere 
Our  fundamental  principles  declare. 

[See  Plate  LV.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  33 


All  the  talk  about  stripes  and  oppression  is  a prolonged  and  tedious  pun  on  a word 
which  is  heraldic,  and  has  nothing  to  do  with  a whip  or  lash.  Equally  absurd  and  con- 
trary to  history  are  the  objections  to  the  glorious  Flag  of  the  AATir  of  Independence,  as 
belonging  to  the  Union  which  appropriated  what  belonged  to  sovereign  States  it  seduced 
against  the  wishes  of  the  people.  The  white  of  the  large  triangle  represents  Truth  or 
Right ; the  triangle  equilateral,  the  three  essential  attributes  of  States — Sovereignty, 
Freedom,  Independence. 

The  Flag  is  for  the  Army  and  Navy,  and  the  red  stars  are  martial.  Red  is  the 
emblem  of  Love  and  Courage.  The  stripes  represent  the  origin  of  the  American  States 
from  their  Father  (AVashington)  and  Liberty.  The  characteristics  of  the  old  Flag  are 
all  retained;  the  azure  field,  however,  is  divided.  The  triangle,  which  contains  the 
Southern  constellation,  occupies  one  half;  the  rest  is  starless.  It  will  be  distinguish- 
able at  any  distance,  while  its  American  character  is  manifestly  retained.  It  is  more 
elegant  and  expressive  than  the  old  Flag,  where  the  unconfined  stars  have  no  symbol 
of  union  or  confederation.  The  fact  is,  that  that  Flag  well  expressed  the  imperfect 
association  of  the  original  Confederacy,  and  if  the  Union  had  not  been  absurd  and 
false,  it  might  have  had  some  device  expressive  of  its  principle ; but  as  its  motto  was 
an  untruth,  “One  from  many,”  instead  of  “ One  for  many,”  it  deluded  the  people  by 
taking  the  old  Army  Flag  of  the  Revolution,  putting  the  imperial  eagle  on  its  coin. 
This  Flag  can  be  made  of  bunting,  and  is  simple. 


This  shows  the  division  of  the  white  triangle  into  sixteen  equilateral  triangles,  in 
the  centre  of  which  may  be  placed  stars  of  different  sizes,  according  to  the  number 
required.  The  places,  if  the  centres  were  mathematically  observed,  as  in  the  specimen 
central,  would  constitute,  by  their  centres,  an  equilateral  triangle. 


34  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


By  always  preserving  these  compartments,  in  the  arrangement  of  the  stars  from 
three  to  sixteen,  the  harmony  of  the  design  is  preserved,  in  very  many  combinations 
which  would  be  confused,  except  by  a separate  sketch  for  each. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  18,  1801. 

Hon.  R.  W.  Barnwell. 

Dear  Sir:  Allow  me  to  present  to  your  notice  another  design,  which  I trust  may 
prove  acceptable. 

Respectfully,  &c., 

A CITIZEN,  AND  NULLIFIER  SINCE  1830. 
Southern  Confederacy  Flag. 

The  centre  star  represents  the  Constitution  of  the  Confederacy,  around  which  they 
all  cluster. 

[See  Plate  LVI.] 


Hon.  William  Porcher  Miles, 

Montgomery , Ala. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  18,  1861. 


Dear  Sir:  I take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  you  a rough  specimen  of  a Flag. 
I copy  nature.  In  the  centre  of  a sky-blue  field  I put  a white  crescent,  which  is 
emblematic  of  our  sovereignty,  our  youth  and  vigor.  Around  this  crescent  I place  a circle 
of  stars,  one  for  each  State  that  formed  the  Southern  Confederacy.  I have  six.  If 
Texas  is  entitled  to  a place,  let  her  in,  .and  make  the  number  seven.  I color  these 
stars  red,  the  color  which  best  represents  the  courage  that  enabled  these  States  to  dare 
and  to  defy.  Around  these  red  stars  I have  another  circle  of  stars,  in  which  every 
State  in  the  Confederacy  is  to  be  represented  by  a star.  I have  made  fifteen  only,  for 
the  effect.  We  could  not  put  that  many  now,  but  may  do  so  ere  long.  If  the  crescent 
is  objectionable,  I suggest  the  cotton  plant  in  its  place.  This  is  a powerful  centre  piece 
truly. 


If  my  specimen  had  more  artistic  merit,  and  [one  entire  line  illegible]  much  more 
advantage.  However,  as  I have  not  time  to  make  another,  I send  this.  Dispose  of  it 
as  you  please. 

Fort  Sumter  not  yet  taken. 

Respectfully,  yours,  &c., 


A. 


[See  Plate  LVII.] 


Greensborough  Femai.e  Academy, 

Greensborougli,  Ala.,  February  18,  1861. 

Hon.  J.  L.  M.  Curry. 

Dear  Sir  : I have  taken  the  liberty  of  addressing  you  on  the  subject  of  a “National 
Flag”  for  our  Southern  Confederacy.  I am  induced  to  do  so,  having  conferred  with 
your  brother,  Mr.  Jackson  Curry,  also  Mr.  Jabez  Curry,  Elder  Walthall,  and  others, 
who  are  pleased  with  my  ideas,  and  have  encouraged  me  to  present  it.  If  I am 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  35 


correctly  informed,  there  is  a committee  appointed  for  the  purpose  of  deciding  upon  a 
Flag,  and  hoping  you  will  excuse  a stranger  for  intruding  upon  your  time,  allow  me  to 
present  to  you,  as  well  as  to  your  associate  from  this  district  (himself  also  a stranger 
personally),  Hon.  S.  F.  Hale,  of  Eutaw,  my  ideas  respecting  a National  Southern 
Confederacy  Flag. 

The  old  American  Flag  is  particularly  (in  three  points  of  view)  entitled  to  consid- 
eration: 1st.  That,  by  all  nations,  it  is  conceded  to  be  the  handsomest.  2d.  That,  by 
mariners,  it  is  acknowledged  to  be  more  easily  discerned  at  a distance.  3d.  That  it  is 
most  decidedly  American  in  coloring  and  design. 

It  is  designed,  I believe,  to  adopt  as  much  of  the  old  Constitution  in  the  Constitu- 
tion of  the  new  Southern  Confederacy  as  will  suit  our  purpose,  and,  in  like  manner, 
I propose  to  use  the  old  Flag  as  far  as  suits  our  purpose,  on  the  ground  that  it  is  so 
decidedly  American,  and,  both  in  song  and  history,  has  a celebrity  unequaled,  founded 
upon  the  fame  and  heroism  of  men  of  the  South  as  well  as  of  the  North.  When  we 
think  of  the  “Star  Spangled  Banner,”  “Columbia,  Gem  of  the  Ocean,”  and  other 
songs  written  by  Southern  men,  can  we  not  claim  our  Stars  and  Stripes? 

Then,  again,  we  have  seceded  from  the  old  Union  and  formed  a new  Union  ; in  a 
similar  manner  let  us  do  with  the  Flag,  viz : The  blue  square  in  the  upper  corner  is 
termed  the  union  part  of  the  Flag,  and  contains  the  stars,  representing  the  several 
States ; let  that  be  placed  in  the  centre,  and,  as  in  olden  times  the  stars  were  few  in 
number,  but  surely  and  gradually  increased,  so  in  like  manner  our  galaxy,  though  few, 
is  bound  to  fill  out  and  will  secede  from  the  corner  to  the  centre  ; more  than  that,  the 
old  Flag  is  often  burlesqued  by  being  hoisted  upside  down,  or,  in  nautical  parlance,  is 
termed  union  down,  but  by  placing  the  union  in  the  centre  we  indicate  that  we  have 
formed  a Union  that  cannot  be  put  down;  for_turn  the  Flag  endways,  sideways,  or 
whichever  way  you  please,  the  uniou  still  remains  in  the  centre. 

The  centre  may  be  either  square  or  oval,  but  by  being  placed  in  the  centre  is  more 
in  accordance  with  rules  of  design,  is  handsomer,  is  as  readily  distinguished,  and  is  as 
fully  American,  and  can  be  readily  recognized  from  the  old  Federal  Flag. 

Thus  I have  endeavored  to  explain  my  ideas,  as  also  in  a similar  letter  to  Mr. 
Hale.  I trust  you  will  pardon  the  liberty  I have  taken,  and  also  that  of  soliciting, 
should  you  deem  it  worthy,  your  interest  with  the  committee  appointed  to  consider  the 
subject. 

Hoping,  therefore,  I may  be  excused  for  trespassing  thus  far  upon  your  patience, 
allow  me  to  remain, 

Very  truly,-  yours, 


H.  AUG.  POND. 


Greensborough,  Ala.,  February  18,  1861. 

S.  F.  Hale,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir  : Not  having  the  pleasure  of  an  intimate  acquaintance  with,  still  I can 
claim  an  introduction  to,  you,  through  Mr.  C.  E.  Brame,  of  the  academy  at  this  place, 
two  years  since. 

I have  been  for  some  time  connected  with  Mr.  Brame,  at  the  academy,  in  the 
artistical  department  of  music,  drawing,  painting,  &c.,  and,  at  his  suggestion,  have 
designed  a Flag  as  a National  Flag  for  our  Southern  Confederation. 


36  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


If  I mistake  not,  there  is  a committee  appointed  to  consider  the  matter  and  report, 
and  already,  I suppose,  many  designs  have  been  handed  in.  I do  not  wish  to  encroach 
upon  your  time  to  peruse  a lengthy  synopsis  of  my  ideas,  but  if  you  will  indulge  me,  I 
will  briefly  state  my  views:  1st,  it  is  universally  acknowledged  that  the  American  Flag 
is  the  handsomest  of  all  the  National  Flags ; 2d,  that  it  is  conceded  by  all  mariners 
discernable  at  a greater  distance  than  any  other,  and  more  readily  distinguished;  and 
3d,  that  it  is  decidedly  American  in  coloring  and  design. 

Our  Southern  Confederacy,  if  I mistake  not,  design  adopting  as  much  of  the  Con- 
stitution as  will  answer  their  views  and  purposes.  Why  may  we  then  not  adopt  as 
much  of  the  old  Flag  as  will  answer  our  purposes,  so  celebrated  in  song  and  history? 
We  have  seceded  from  the  old  Union  and  formed  a new  Union  ; let  us  do  in  like  man- 
ner with  the  Flag,  viz: — the  blue  square  in  the  upper  corner,  containing  the  stars, 
representing  the  States  of  the  Union,  and  termed  the  union  part  of  the  Flag — let  us 
place  that  in  the  centre.  Secede  from  the  corner  to  the  centre.  We  then  have  a 
square  within  a square,  or,  if  preferred,  make  the  centre  piece  an  oval  instead  of  a 
square  ; put  in  the  number  of  stars  corresponding  to  the  number  of  States,  adding 
thereto  as  they  join  our  new  Confederacy.  We  then  preserve  the  American  design, 
and  the  Flag  will  be  at  once  recognized  from  the  old  Flag,  and,  in  an  artistical  point  of 
view,  will  be  a much  handsomer  and  better  proportioned  emblem.  Also,  the  old  Flag 
is  sometimes  burlesqued  by  exposing,  upside  down,  or,  as  the  old  sailors  say,  union 
down  : but,  with  the  design  I propose,  we  indicate  that  we  have  now  formed  a Union 
that  cannot  be  put  down ; for  turn  the  Flag  which  way  you  will  the  union  part  of  it 
will  be  in  the  centre. 

I have  exhibited  my  design  to  several  of  our  citizens,  who  approve  and  urge  me  to 
present  it  for  consideration,  and,  presuming  upon  your  indulgence  in  my  intruding  upon 
your  already  preoccupied  moments,  and  soliciting  the  favor  of  your  presenting  the  design 
to  the  committee  on  that  subject  for  inspection  and  consideration,  allow  me  to  remain, 
Very  truly,  yours, 


[See  Pi.ates  Lfl,  LIX.] 


H.  AUG.  POND. 


Wateke,  S.  C.,  February  18,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

My  Dear  Sir:  I would  be  glad  to  suggest  to  you,  while  occupied  with  selecting  a 
Flag  for  our  new  Government,  to  consider  the  claims  of  one  of  our  handsomest  and 
largest  forest  trees  peculiar  to  the  South,  and  perhaps  even  better  known  in  Texas 
than  with  us  in  South  Carolina:  I mean  the  magnolia.  Its  leaves  and  flowers  woven 
into  a wreath  would  be  a tasteful  arrangement  and  fit  to  appear  on  our  National 
Emblem. 

There  is  no  Flag  blue  and  red  divided  diagonally.  With  such  a one  the  wreath  in 
white  in  the  centre  would  look  well.  In  the  commercial  Flag  the  wreath  may  be 
omitted,  and  the  Flag  would  continue  to  be  distinguished  from  all  others.  On  an 
ornamented  Flag  the  magnolia  leaves  and  flowers,  worked  in  silver  or  gold  thread, 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  37 


would  be  pretty ; it  would  be  neither  too  warlike  nor  too  much  of  the  Odd  Fellows’  sort, 
and,  as  in  Great  Britain  the  rose  and  thistle,  &c.,  are  noticed,  I think  we  may  very 
well  select  the  magnolia,  being  neither  shrub  nor  weed,  but  one  of  the  largest  and  hand- 
somest forest  trees  in  the  world,  and,  I believe,  quite  as  much  an  exotic  in  Virginia 
and  north  of  our  State  as  disunion  sentiments  have  lately  proved  to  be. 

I would  wish  no  stars  or  stripes  or  pluribus  ununis,  but  such  a motto  as  Virtus 
libertatem  custodit.  On  a coin  the  magnolia  wreath  would  look  very  pretty.  The 
Roman  scudo  has  an  oak  wreath,  but  too  large.  On  the  reverse  a plow  would  be 
appropriate,  though  I see  Mr.  Pratt  thinks  there  will  be  no  use  for  such  implements  in 
our  country  much  longer,  now  that  our  Congress  has  had  the  decency  to  prohibit  the 
African  slave  trade. 

I hope  you  will  give  the  magnolia  a share  of  your  attention,  and  that,  in  some 
shape,  it  may  get  a place  in  the  picture. 

I am,  with  esteem,  very  truly,  yours, 

E.  BARNWELL  HEYWARD. 

[See  Plate  LX.] 


Hon.  C.  G.  Memminger. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  18,  1861. 


Dear  Sir:  I take  the  liberty  of  offering  a few  specimens  of  Flags,  combining  the 
Southern  emblems,  &c.,  hoping  they  may  assist  you  in  the  selection  of  a suitable  one  for 
our  Confederacy. 

Your  obedient  servant, 

JNO.  C.  C.  NOLAND. 


[Designs  missing.] 


Greensborough,  Ala.,  February  18,  1861. 

Hon.  J.  L.  M.  Curry. 

Dear  Sir:  If  the  present  Provisional  Government  intends  adopting  a National  Flag, 
I beg  leave,  most  respectfully,  to  submit  the  following  : What  is  called  the  union  in  the 
old  Flag  to  be  placed  in  the  centre  ; the  seven  stars,  denoting  the  seceding  States,  to  be 
grouped  in  the  form  of  a sickle  on  a blue  ground,  and  the  stripes  to  be  as  they  are  on 
the  old  Flag.  As  a modification  of  that  design,  I would  respectfully  recommend  that 
the  union  in  which  is  placed  the  sickle  be  of  an  oval  form,  and  surrounded  by  seven 
elliptic  curves,  alternately  red,  white,  and  blue. 

My  reasons  for  submitting  the  particular  designs  mentioned  are  found  in  the  fact 
that  the  design  is  simple,  beautiful,  suggestive,  and  original.  The  idea  of  the  sickle  is 
taken  from  that  figure  in  the  constellation  “Leo,”  by  which  I would  intimate  our  origin 
from  Great  Britain.  It  would  also  convey  with  it,  as  an  agricultural  implement,  the 
peaceful  tendencies  of  the  Government  established,  whilst  it  might  suggest  the  thought 
that  the  Divine  Being  would  employ  its  power  and  overrule  its  grand  destiny  as  a 
reaper  in  the  great  harvest  of  souls.  Besides,  from  this  constellation  there  emanated 
that  most  wonderful  phenomena  of  shooting  stars  in  1833.  This  might  suggest  the  idea 
that  from  our  glorious  Confederacy  there  might  go  out  an  influence  filling  the  world 
with  beauty,  light,  and  admiration.  The  design  is  original,  as  no  other  nation  has  ever 
had  a sickle  for  its  ensign. 


38  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


In  regard  to  the  rest  of  the  Flag,  it  might  be  composed  of  red,  white,  and  blue 
stripes,  equaling  the  number  of  seceding  States  forming  the  Government,  or  there 
might  be  that  many  ellipses  surrounding  an  oval  blue  one,  which  contain  the  sickle  and 
stars. 

If  it  is  worth  while,  and  you  think  the  matter  sufficiently  worthy  of  consideration, 
you  will  much  oblige  one  who  entertains  the  warmest  sentiments  of  esteem  for  yourself 
if  you  will  bring  my  suggestions  before  any  committee  authorized  to  consider  this 
matter. 

I should  feel  very  proud  of  having  suggested  the  design  which  shall  be  adopted  ; 
but  my  anxiety  to  receive  the  honor  would  not  preclude  my  devotion  to  any  Flag  which 
may  be  adopted  by  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

If  you  think  it  advisable,  I can  have  a model  of  this  Flag  forwarded. 

Respectfully, 

C.  E.  BRAME. 


[See  Plates  LXI,  LXII.] 


Montgomery,  Ala.,  February  18,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  You  will  please  submit  the  accompanying  design  to  the  Committee  on 
Flags.  It  combines  the  three  Republican  colors,  and  is  very  simple.  No  regard  has 
been  paid  to  proportion  in  the  drawing,  my  only  object  being  to  submit  a rough  design. 
[See  Plate  LXIII.] 


Canton,  Miss.,  February  19,  1861. 

Mr.  Walker  Brooke. 

Sir  : Allow  us  to  present  for  your  consideration  two  designs  for  the  Flag  of  the 
Confederate  States  of  North  America.  The  eagle  is  intended  to  be  represented  as 
holding  a sheaf  of  wheat  and  a stalk  of  cotton  ; the  sun,  as  just  rising. 

Respectfully,  yours, 

E.  0.  GRIGSBY. 

JAS.  L.  AYE  RILL. 

[See  Plates  LXIV,  LXV.] 


Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  19.  1861. 

President  and  Members  of  Congress  of 

Confederate  States  of  America. 

Fellow- patriots  : As  the  ensign  of  our  nationality  we  should  have  an  embodi- 
ment of  the  elements  which  compose  our  country,  and  at  the  same  time  express  the 
relative  position  of  different  portions  of  the  population  in  a political  aspect.  The 
aboriginal  inhabitant  of  this  region  was  the  Indian,  familiarly  known  as  the  red  man, 
and  a portion  of  this  race  is  still  within  our  domain.  The  Anglo-Saxon,  or  white  man, 
came  into  the  country  with  superior  intellectual  and  social  characteristics,  and  has  by 
the  power  of  mind  secured  a supremacy  throughout  the  land.  They  brought  with  them 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  39 

the  negro  slave,  and  the  black  man  has  continued  in  a state  of  subjection  in  this 
Southern  latitude,  not  only  in  accordance  with  his  physical  and  mental  status,  but  now 
recognized  by  our  new  organization  as  the  property  of  the  white  man. 

As  emblematic  of  these  three  races  of  our  people,  I propose  the  colors  of  white, 
red,  and  black,  as  appropriate  to  our  Flag;  placing  the  red,  up  and  down,  next  the 
statf,  to  indicate  the  primary  relation  of  the  Indian  ; the  black  extending  at  right  angles 
from  the  former,  and  below,  to  indicate  subjection ; and  the  white  above,  to  denote 
superiority  ; while  a ci’escent  of  white  stars,  representing  each  State,  is  arranged  at  the 
lower  left-hand  corner,  overrunning  the  red  and  black,  illustrating  the  control  of  the 
white  man  over  the  other  races,  and  his  increasing  ascendency. 

This  tricolor,  representing  the  Republican  form  of  government,  affords  a fine  and 
distinct  contrast,  while  it  is  simple  and  readily  distinguished  from  the  Flag  of  any  other 
nationality. 

Any  prejudice  that  may  attach  to  black  and  red  is  dissipated  by  the  white  stars 
spread  over  portions  of  each,  and  the  effect  of  the  whole  combination  is  to  direct  the 
mind  to  the  progressive  feature  of  our  Southern  independence.  Each  star  stands  forth 
as  the  repi'esentative  of  sovereignty,  and  yet,  associated  together  in  the  crescent,  they 
become  a union  of  powers  in  one  grand  Confederacy. 

Columbia  had  the  privilege  of  starting  the  secession  movement,  and  if  she  may 
now  suggest  a fitting  emblem  of  the  greatness  of  the  result,  it  will  be  her  crowning  glory 
and  the  highest  honor  to  one  of  her  humble  sons. 

Very  respectfully, 

J.  M.  F.  GASTON. 

Mr.  Boyce  will  please  to  do  me  the  favor  to  present  this  model  of  a Flag,  with  the 
accompanying  paper,  to  the  Congress,  and  very  much  oblige, 

Your  friend, 

J.  M.  F.  GASTON. 

[See  Plate  LXVI.] 


Osyka,  Pike  County,  Miss.,  February  20,  1861. 

Hon.  Jefferson  Davis, 

President  of  our  beloved  Southern  Congress. 

Being  a daughter  of  the  South,  I take  the  liberty  of  sending  you  a model  of  a 
Banner,  which  I only  hope  may  be  received  with  warm  feelings.  The  white  ground  is 
an  emblem  of  innocence ; the  blue  ring,  lasting  love ; in  the  red  centre  is  placed 
a cross,  representing  us  as  a Christian  nation.  The  crescent  over  the  cross  is  our 
Southern  Confederacy,  and  the  seven  stars  represent  the  seven  States ; all  these  being 
placed  in  the  ring,  represent  our  union  in  the  Southern  Confederacy — never  to  be 
broken.  The  name  I have  chosen  is  “The  United  Southern  Banner.” 

Please  to  excuse  the  great  liberty  I have  taken  in  writing  to  you,  but,  like  General 
Washington,  you  are  looked  upon  as  the  Father  of  the  South,  and  I know  you  will 
excuse  all  liberties  the  Southern  daughters  take. 

May  God  bless  the  Southern  Confederacy,  and  whichever  model  is  chosen  for  a 
Banner,  may  His  rich  blessings  ever  rest  upon  it,  is  the  sincere  wish  of 

Mrs.  AMELIA  A.  LONGMIRE. 


[See  Plate  LXVIL] 


40  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Lowndesborough,  Ala.,  Febmary  20,  18G1. 

Dear  Clitherall:  I take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  to  you  a design  I sketched  this 
morning  for  our  Confederate  Flag,  with  the  request  that  you  pass  it  over  to  the  com- 
mittee on  that  subject.  The  blue  circle  represents  the  entirety  or  sovereignty  of  each 
State,  which  is  represented  by  its  star ; the  central  star,  the  Confederate  Government ; 
the  stripes  of  course  you  understand.  Any  number  of  stars  can  be  added  to  the  circle. 

I doubt  not  the  committee  is  in  possession  of  any  number  of  designs.  I wish  mine 
there  too. 

With  sentiments  of  sincere  regard,  I am,  yours, 

J.  M.  JENNINGS. 


If  my  design,  or  any  other  embracing  my  points,  that  is,  mine  modified,  is  adopted, 
I will  insure  a large  and  splendid  one  from  the  ladies  here  instanter,  to  be  unfurled  over 
the  State-house. 


[See  Plate  LXVIII.] 


Cassville,  Ga.,  February  20,  1861. 


Gentlemen:  Having  seen  in  the  papers  several  designs  for  Banners,  presented  for 
the  consideration  of  the  Committee  on  Flags,  I presume  upon  the  privilege  of  sending 
one,  designed  and  completed  by  myself,  for  the  present  use  of  the  military  of  our  vil- 
lage. I send  you  a model,  though  in  rather  a rude  state.  The  centre  star  of  six  points 
represents  the  six  States  now  in  Congress  ; the  eight  surrounding  stars,  eight  of  the 
border  slave-holding  States,  while  the  ninth  is  placed  in  the  farther  corner  of  the  stripes, 
showing  the  right  of  single  secession.  The  heart  in  the  centre  star  means  the  heart  of  the 
people  is  in  the  Southern  Confederacy ; the  dove  and  olive-branch,  our  wish  for  peace- 
able secession ; but,  if  necessary,  we  must  resort  to  the  righteous  defense  of  the  sword. 
Under  all  circumstances,  we  must  remember  that  the  eye  of  God  is  upon  us,  and  the 
cross  that  we  must  look  to  a higher  power  than  the  wisdom  and  arm  of  man.  As  the 
border  States  come  into  the  Union  they  may  be  connected,  first  to  the  Congress  star, 
by  a chain,  and  the  chain  extended  from  star  to  star  as  the  States  may  come  in.  If  any, 
after  a proper  time,  refuse  to  join  the  Southern  Confederacy,  strike  them  out;  and  if 
any  of  the  non-slaveholding  States  see  proper  to  unite  with  us,  the  circle  may  be 
enlarged  by  adding  other  stars. 

The  motto  should  be  painted  on  the  satin,  but,  for  want  of  room,  I use  a piece  of 
paper.  The  stars  might  appear  to  better  advantage  on  a ground  of  red. 

Yours,  with  all  respect, 

Mrs.  E.  G.  CARPENTER. 


[See  Plate  L5IX.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  20,  1861. 

Colonel  Keitt. 

My  Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  you  will  find  a sketch  of  a Flag,  which,  on  account  of 
its  simplicity  and  its  embracing  the  true  republican  colors,  besides  avoiding  the  odious 
stripes,  may  possibly  meet  with  some  favor.  I th'ink  all  the  models  that  have  been 
described  are  too  complicated  for  bunting.  They  doubtless  would  look  well  painted. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


41 

The  stars  could  be  placed  in  the  form  of  a cross,  if  preferred  ; but,  to  my  mind,  that 
symbol  is  not  appropriate  for  a Flag  of  an  entirely  national  character.  I have  only 
made  a rough  sketch,  to  give  you  the  idea.  Tf  you  approve,  1 could  easily  have  a model 
made  and  forwarded.  It  has  the  advantage  of  being  unique.  No  nation  has  anything 
even  remotely  similar  that  I know  of.  Are  you  not  to  be  one  of  the  Cabinet?  I 
sincerely  trust  so,  and  though,  as  yet,  I am  pretty  well  pleased  with  the  progress  of 
matters  in  the  Congress,  I feel  that  Carolina  has  not  received  a full  share  of  honor.  I 
know  that  our  nobles  have  not  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  revolution  for  the  sake 
of  reward,  but  it  is  just  that  they  should  be  honored. 

If  my  dear  friend  Sue  is  with  you,  pray  offer  my  warmest  regards.  She  did  not 
send  the  baby  to  see  me. 

I think  the  rings  in  the  Flag  might  be  a little  broader.  If  you  approve  the  idea, 
send  me  a telegram  to  have  a model  made.  Should  I not  hear  from  you,  I will  con- 
clude either  that  it  is  not  worthy,  or  that  it  is  too  late.  The  spirit  did  not  move  me 
until  last  evening. 

With  kind  regards,  yours,  sincerely, 

JULIA  BONNETHEAU. 

[Design  missing.] 


Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  20,  1861. 

Hon.  W.  P.  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  Seeing  your  name  on  the  Committee  on  Flags,  I take  the  liberty  of 
enclosing  the  accompanying  description  of  a Flag,  taken  from  this  morning’s  Carolinian. 
Designs  of  this  Flag  have  already  been  forwarded  to  Mr.  Boyce  and  Mr.  Memminger, 
through  the  kindness  of  my  friend,  Colonel  F.  W.  McMaster,  of  this  city.  The  object 
of  the  present  communication  is  to  call  your  attention  to  a significance  of  the  colors 
composing  the  Flag,  which  did  not  occur  to  me  until  after  the  design  had  been  sent, 
and  which  is  noticed  in  the  enclosed  slip. 

Very  respectfully,  yours, 

R,  B.  WADDELL. 


Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  20,  1861. 

Hon.  C.  G.  Memminger, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

Dear  Sir  : Presuming  upon  the  kind  manner  in  which  you  were  pleased  to  present 
my  design  for  a Flag,  forwarded  you  through  the  kindness  of  my  friend,  Colonel  F.  W. 
McMaster,  of  this  city,  I take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  a slip  from  this  morning’s  Caro- 
linian, which  contains  a significance  of  the  colors  composing  the  Flag,  but  which  did 
not  occur  to  me  until  after  the  design  had  been  sent.  In  the  hope  that  it  may  meet 
with  your  approval, 

I am,  very  respectfully,  yours, 

R,  B.  WADDELL. 


42  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Carolinian,  Columbia,  S.  C.,  February  20, 1861.] 

An  appropriate  Flag. 

We  publish  a very  appropriate  design  of  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy.  It 
is  the  work  of  a gentleman  of  this  place,  and  we  are  pleased  to  see  has  been  very 
favorably  reported  on  by  Mr.  Memminger,  to  whom  it  was  sent.  We  hope  Columbia 
taste  may  have  the  honor  of  having  devised  the  Flag  for  the  Confederacy : 

Description. — A tricolor — red,  white,  and  blue.  The  blue,  upright,  as  shown  in 
the  design  below,  and  next  to  the  mast.  The  red  and  white  running  off  at  right  angles 
to  the  blue,  the  white  being  uppermost ; seven  white  stars,  representing  the  seven 
seceded  States,  placed  upon  the  blue,  and  one  to  be  added  for  each  State  that  may 
come  into  the  Confederacy. 


Besides  being  a tricolor,  which  is  the  emblem  of  most  republican  governments, 
this  Flag  possesses  the  advantages  of  simplicity  and  perfect  distinctness.  It  can  be 
seen  and  recognized  at  sea  at  a much  greater  distance  than  the  United  States  Flag.  It 
can  be  made  more  easily  and  readily  than  any  other  that  could  be  suggested  for  this 
purpose,  as  the  pieces  of  red,  white,  and  blue  are  of  the  same  length,  breadth,  and 
width,  and  each  piece  one-half  as  wide  as  it  is  long. 

This  Flag  possesses  a significance  which  would  continually  keep  before  the  eyes  of 
our  posterity  the  objects  sought  in  the  formation  of  the  Confederacy.  It  is  well  known 
that  the  blue  color  signifies  firmness,  constancy,  faithfulness ; white,  peace  ; and  red  is 
emblematic  of  war.  With  the  seven  stars  on  the  blue,  this  Flag  can  be  read  as  follows  : 

Blue  : Seven  States  have  entered  into  a covenant  of  good  faith. 

White:  To  promote  their  general  welfare  in  times  of  peace. 

Red:  To  provide  a common  defense  in  times  of  war. 

A design  of  the  above-mentioned  Flag  was  forwarded  several  days  ago  to  the  Con- 
gress at  Montgomery.  * 

[See  Plate  LXX.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  43 


Washington,  D.  C.,  February  20,  1861. 

*'*.*■** 

Let  the  Yankees  keep  their  ridiculous  tune  of  “ Yankee  Doodle,”  but,  by  all  that  is 
sacred,  do  not  let  them  monopolize  the  stars  and  stripes.  You  have  fought  well  under 
our  glorious  banner.  Could  you  fight  as  well  under  another?  Never!  Change  it, 
improve  it,  alter  it  as  you  will,  but  for  Heaven’s  sake  keep  the  stars  and  stripes. 

J.  D.  P. 


Eutaw,  Ala.,  February  21,  1861. 

Hon.  S.  F.  Hale. 

Dear  Sir  : I enclose  a few  models  for  the  Committee  on  Flags,  and  would  be 
exceedingly  obliged  if  you  will  hand  it  in. 

Trusting  you  will  pardon  me  for  troubling  you  in  the  matter,  I am,  with  consider- 
ations of  high  esteem, 

Very  respectfully,  yours, 

WILLIAM  T.  RIDDLE. 


The  Committee  on  Flags. 


Eutaw,  Ala.,  February  21,  1861. 


Gentlemen  : I submit  to  your  consideration  two  or  three  models  of  Flags  for  the 
“Confederate  States  of  America.” 

The  large  one  consists  of  six  stripes  and  half  stripes,  to  represent  the  first  six  States 
which  formed  the  Confederacy;  the  Shield  or  Coat  of  Arms  to  contain  fifteen,  or  as 
many  stars  as  there  are  States  to  be  added  as  they  join  the  Confederacy.  The  Shield  is 
surmounted  by  a golden  cotton  bale,  and  the  other  corners  contain  cotton  plants. 

The  other  Flags  explain  themselves,  and  were  designed  by  Miss  Irene  Riddle.  If 
you  should  decline  to  adopt  any  of  these,  do  not  mention  the  names  attached  to  them. 

Very  respectfully,  yours, 

WM.  T.  RIDDLE. 


[See  Plates  LXXI,  LXXII,  LXXIII.] 


* 


Lynchburg,  Va.,  February  21,  1861. 

Hon.  Jefferson  Davis, 

President  Confederate  States  of  North  America. 

Dear  Sir  : I enclose  in  this  a rough  sketch  of  a design  of  a Flag  that  I am  having 
made,  which  I think  the  most  appropriate  one  the  seceded  States  can  adopt  as  the  Flag 


44  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


of  the  Confederacy.  I enclose  this  to  give  you  some  idea  of  it,  and  will  forward  the 
design  in  a few  days.  When  it  is  received,  please  lay  it  before  the  proper  authorities. 
With  sentiments  of  the  highest  regard, 

I am,  truly  yours, 

C.  KIRKWOOD  OTEY. 


RED  STRIPE. 

WHITE  STRIPE. 

BLUE  STRIPE. 

RED  STRIPE. 

WHITE  STRIPE. 

BLUE  STRIPE. 

RED  STRIPE. 

Explanation. 

Stack  of  muskets,  say  three,  with  drum  and  accoutrements  hanging  from  them. 
Then,  if  preferred,  have  four  other  muskets  resting  on  the  stack,  each  musket  repre- 
senting one  of  the  seven  seceded  States.  Each  star  represents  a seceded  State.  Seven 
stripes,  each  stripe  representing  a State,  alternately  red,  white,  and  blue,  or,  if  there 
should  be  only  seven  States  (which  God  forbid,  for  I want  Virginia  with  the  South  or  I 
must  individually  secede),  have  the  stripes  the  seven  colors.  The  motto,  Nous  nous 
suppoi'tons,  is  translated:  “We  support  each  other,”  or,  more  properly,  “ We  stand 
by  each  other.” 

[See  Plate  LXXIV.] 


Philadelphia,  Pa., 

300  South  Eleventh  Street,  February  22,  1861. 

Jefferson  Davis, 

President  of  the  Southern  Confederacy. 

Dear  Sir:  Will  you  excuse  the  liberty  I take  in  sending  you  a model  of  a Flag? 
It  has  been  designed  by  a friend  of  mine,  whose  sympathies,  like  my  own,  are  all  with 
the  South.  However,  as  he  is  an  officer  on  the  Coast  Survey,  and  as  such  serving  the 
Federal  Government  in  this  part  of  the  world,  he  requests  me  to  suppress  his  name  at 
present.  He,  as  well  as  myself,  thinks  the  Southern  States  as  much,  if  not  more,  enti- 
tled to  the  Stars  and  Stripes  than  the  Northern,  a little  modification  only  being  neces- 
sary to  distinguish  one  from  the  other. 

The  large  white  star,  representing  the  Confederacy  itself,  would,  I think,  be  very 
effective  and  conspicuous.  Any  number  of  small  stars  can  be  added  as  States  come  in. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


45 


As  we  calculate  upon  all  the  slave-holding  States  coming  into  our  Confederacy,  unless 
ample  guaranties  are  given,  we  have  the  fifteen  stripes  also  to  represent  them.  I see, 
from  the  papers,  that  models  of  Flags  are  daily  sent  into  Congress  at  Mobile.  Will 
you,  if  you  approve  of  the  one  enclosed,  have  the  goodness  to  send  it  in  among  others? 
If  so,  you  will  greatly  oblige  me.  Would  not  a phenix  be  an  appropriate  Coat  of  Arms 
for  our  Confederation,  as  our  principles  never  die?  I take  the  greatest  interest  in  every 
move  at  the  South — rejoice  that  you  are  President  and  Mr.  Stephens  Vice  President — 
admire  your  inaugural,  and  have  every  confidence  in  the  success  of  the  Southern  Con- 
federation under  your  judicious  auspices  ; yet,  I cannot  help  clinging  to  the  hope  that 
we  may  all  be  one  again.  My  own  impression  is  that  ere  long  the  South  will  get  all 
she  wishes  from  the  North,  in  the  form  of  amendments  or  explanations  of  the  Consti- 
tution, and  one  of  them  must  be  the  right  of  a State  or  States  to  secede  peaceably, 
under  certain  circumstances.  That  would  be  the  best  possible  check  upon  the  growing 
Northern  States  to  ward  off  aggression,  and  would  act  upon  those  States  as  the  code  of 
honor  does  on  individuals — fix  responsibility.  With  this  check  embodied  in  the  Con- 
stitution, we  might  have  a reasonable  hope  of  the  perpetuity  of  our  Union  upon  terms 
of  perfect  equality.  I am  so  fully  persuaded  that  the  South  will  not  only  get  what  she 
demands,  but  will  have  it  in  her  power  to  dictate  to  the  North,  that  I should  be  delighted 
to  know  you  are  forming  your  Constitution  with  a view  to  this  result.  You  might  then 
insist  upon  having  a part  of  your  Constitution  inserted  in  the  old  one. 

The  present  mode  of  electing  our  President  is  very  objectionable,  the  electoral 
college  having  the  power  to  elect  a minority  President,  as  in  Lincoln’s  case.  I detest 
universal  suffrage.  Would  it  be  possible  to  require  property  and  educational  qualifica- 
tions? Liberty  of  speech  is  a good  thing;  license  of  speech,  a great  evil.  Should 
assemblies  be  allowed  to  meet  to  indulge  in  this  license  by  speaking  against  the  requisi- 
tions of  the  Constitution?  When  these  sanction  and  protect  slavery,  should  persons  be 
allowed  to  assemble  in  churches  or  elsewhere  to  decry  it?  Is  it  not  treason?  Can  no 
amendment  to  the  Constitution  reach  this  case?  I do  not  mean  directly,  but  in  gen- 
eral terms. 

I am  afraid  you  think  me  very  officious,  but  do  let  the  intense  interest  I take  in 
my  country,  and  particularly  in  the  South,  plead  my  apology. 

When  I was  at  home  in  Washington,  at  General  Totten’s,  about  Christmas  times, 
I tried  several  times  to  see  Mrs.  Davis,  but  she  was  always  out. 

Wishing  you  every  success,  I remain, 

Your  very  sincere  friend, 


ANN  G.  WIGHTT. 


[See  Plate  LXXV.] 


February  22,  1861. 

ChALRMAX  OF  THE  FlAO  AXD  SEAL  COMMITTEE. 

Sir:  Enclosed  please  find  two  suggestions  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States  of 
America.  The  design  of  each  explains  itself,  and  is  the  idea  of  a native  Georgian. 
Should  the  committee  judge  either  worthy  of  being  adopted,  and  desire  to  know  the 
name  of  the  designer,  it  will  be  furnished  to  them  upon  the  choice  being  made  public. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

[Designs  missing.] 


46  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


COFFEEVILLE,  Cl.ARKE  COUNTY,  Al,A., 

February  23,  1861. 


General  Davis  : I liave  heard  with  pleasure  that  you  have  been  elected  President 
of  the  Provisional  Government  of  the  Confederated  States  of  America.  My  prayer  to 
God  is  for  the  prosperity  of  our  young  nation,  hoping  that  when  we  get  clear  of  Northern 
Abolitionism  we  shall  have  peace  in  our  nation. 

Being  a true  Southerner,  I have  taken  the  liberty  to  send  to  your  care  a miniature 
Flag,  the  emblems  of  which  I would  be  glad  to  see  adopted  by  our  Provisional  Con- 
gress as  the  Ensign  of  this,  our  Government  of  the  Confederated  States  of  America. 
The  emblems,  as  seen  on  the  Flag,  were  taken  from  the  last  scene  of  the  aurora  borealis 
of  the  18th  September,  1859  (at  night).  The  red  portion  of  the  field  represents  that 
portion  of  the  northern  hemisphere  that  was  covered  by  the  red  (and  the  red  receding), 
and  may  apply  to  the  ambition  of  the  North  against  Southern  rights.  The  blue  por- 
tion of  the  field  represents  the  southern  hemisphere  (the  sky  being  clear).  The  white 
stripes  may  be  numbered  to  represent  the  number  of  States  belonging  to  the  Confed- 
eration, and  also  the  purity  of  our  intentions,  since  white  has  been  an  emblem  of  inno- 
cence in  all  ages  of  the  world.  The  pale  circle,  in  which  the  white  stripes  all  seem  to 
unite  as  their  base,  may  be  considered  an  emblem  of  the  combination  of  the  Southern 
States.  The  space  within  the  circle  was  vacant,  and  may  represent  a well-guarded 
government.  The  eye  is  a design  of  my  own,  and,  first,  represents  the  President 
watching  over  the  nation  for  the  good  of  the  people ; secondly,  that  all-seeing  eye  of 
God  by  whose  guardian  care  all  nations  have  their  existence.  The  stars  in  the  blue 
field  were  put  on  for  ornament,  though  they  can  be  suited  to  the  number  of  States. 
The  red  part  of  the  Flag  may  be  left  off  and  have  entirely  a blue  field,  for  the  Flag 
will  look  very  well  without  it.  You  can  have  the  Flag  bordered  with  whatever  color 
suits  your  fancy. 

General  Davis,  if  you  think  the  emblems  on  the  Flag,  as  explained,  would  be  suit- 
able for  a National  Ensign,  you  can  hand  it  over  to  Congress  or  the  Committee  on 
the  Flag  and  Seal ; otherwise,  no  harm  will  be  done. 

Very  respectfully,  your  humble  servant, 

LEWIS  MAY. 

Since  finishing  the  Flag  I have  concluded  that  a pink  border  would  look  the  best. 

[See  Plates  LXXVI,  LXXVII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C., 

242  King  Street , February  23,  1801. 

Hon.  Wm.  Porciier  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  By  the  Adams  Express  Company  I send  you  a model  Flag,  which  I 
beg  you  will  lay  before  the  committee  of  which  you  are  a member.  It  has  been 
approved  by  all  who  have  seen  it,  from  which  I am  encouraged  to  believe  that  it  will 
meet  with  some  favor  with  you.  In  it  Freedom’s  colors  are  preserved,  and  yet  so 
arranged  as  to  entirely  differ  from  any  Flag  that  now  floats  to  the  breeze.  As  new 
States  shall  enter  with  us,  a star  for  each  to  be  add.ed — first,  one  on  the  farther  blue 
centre  from  the  staff,  and  then  one  on  the  nearer,  and  so  on  continually.  The  never- 
ending  band  of  red  is  to  represent  the  never-ending  Confederacy  just  born. 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  47 


To  be  the  author  of  the  standard  for  this  glorious  Confederacy  is  almost  more  than 
an  humble  citizen  like  myself  could  hope  for ; yet  I lay  my  idea  before  you,  exercising 
the  individual  right  which  South  Carolina  and  her  several  sisters,  as  sovereign  States, 
have  exercised. 

Not  having  the  pleasure  of  a personal  acquaintance  with  either  of  the  members  of 
the  delegation  from  South  Carolina,  I have  none  to  whom  I can  apply  to  advocate  it, 
and  therefore  must  let  it  stand  on  its  own  merits,  earnestly  hoping  that  it  may  find  favor 
with  all  the  gentlemen  on  the  committee  and  cause  you  all  to  be  its  advocates. 

With  much  respect,  I am,  yours,  &c., 

ED.  EMERICK  SELL. 


P.  S. — Will  you  please  retain  the  model  until  your  return  to  the  city,  when  I shall 
be  pleased  to  call  for  it  ? 

S. 


[See  Plate  LXXVIII.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  24,  1861. 

Colonel  Keitt. 

My  Dear  Sir  : Through  your  kind  attention  I received  on  Friday  evening  a tele- 
gram requesting  me  to  forward  a model  Flag  of  the  design  I had  submitted  to  your 
consideration.  Early  on  Saturday  Mr.  B.  went  to  the  flag-makers,  but  could  not  possi- 
bly have  it  executed,  as  they  are  all  under  pressing  commands  for  several  weeks  hence. 
I determined  then  to  make  it  at  home,  and  of  such  materials  as  I could  most  promptly 
procure.  The  usual  material  employed  is  bunting,  and  the  Flag  would  be  lighter  and 
handsomer  made  of  it.  It  was  finished  last  evening,  and  I hoped  to  forward  it  to-day. 
I heard,  however,  that  no  messenger  for  the  Adams  Express  travels  on  Sunday,  so 
that  I am  forced  to  delay  forwarding  it  until  to-morrow.  You  will  receive  it  on  Tues- 
day afternoon.  The  Flag  has  been  much  commended  by  one  of  the  flag-makers,  who 
says  that  not  only  is  it  very  conspicuous,  and  can  therefore  be  distinguished  at  a great 
distance,  but  is  perfectly  dissimilar  to  that  of  any  other  nation.  He  thinks  it  harmonious 
and  of  easy  fabrication.  I place  its  fortune  in  your  hands,  my  good  friend,  if  you  will 
allow  me  the  privilege  of  claiming  you  as  such,  and  believe,  if  the  possibility  of  secur- 
ing my  wishes  lies  in  your  power,  that  I will  be  made  happy.  I need  not  speak  of  the 
extreme  gratification  it  would  afford  me  were  it  adopted.  A heart  so  overflowing  with 
patriotism  as  is  yours  can  readily  understand  the  longing  a woman  must  feel  (who  is 
only  prevented  from  leaping  to  the  guns  by  her  sex)  to  contribute  even  a mite  in  aid  of 
the  glorious  cause;  and  think,  too,  of  the  pride  with  which  my  boy  would  regard  his 
mother  were  she  the  designer  of  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy.  But  enough.  You,  I 
am  sure,  perceive  at  a glance  all  that  it  would  be  worth  to  me  could  my  design  be 
adopted;  but  let  me  assure  you  I am  far  from  expecting  or  even  hoping  such  a result. 
With  many  thanks  for  your  kindness, 

I am,  yours  sincerely, 

JULIA  BONNETHEAU. 

P.  S. — My  wife  being  extremely  indisposed  to-day,  I have  transcribed  the  above 
note  at  her  request.  With  sincere  regards  to  madame  and  yourself, 

Respectfully,  &c., 

H.  B.  B. 


I 


48  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  Febi-uary  25,  18G1. 

Colonel  Keitt. 

My  Dear  Sir  : Your  very  friendly  and  welcome  letter  readied  me  yesterday,  only 
an  hour  after  Mr.  IX  had  mailed  one  to  you.  Thank  you  sincerely  for  the  interest 
you  have  taken  respecting  the  Flag.  Though  I fear  it  is  too  late,  I will  still  hope  that 
you  will  be  able  to  defer  the  decision  until  its  arrival.  I have  shown  it  to  several 
gentlemen,  who  appear  to  think  it  just  the  thing.  The  circles  could  be  converted  into 
crescents,  joining  each  other,  one  of  red,  the  other  of  white,  but  probably  it  would 
appear  less  simple.  I am  truly  happy  that  affairs  in  Congress  are  going  on  with  so 
much  unanimity  and  bind  feeling.  Only  establish  the  Government  as  soon  as  practi- 
cable, and  have  us  recognized  abroad,  then  I should  feel  as  though  we  really  are  a 
nation.  It  is  to  be  regretted  that  Sumter  will  have  to  be  taken  by  force  : better  that 
than  have  the  enemy  in  our  midst.  The  policy  towards  them  has  served  to  strengthen 
them  against  us  ; nor  do  the  officers  appear  grateful  for  the  past  favors  granted.  They 
have  planted  cannon  on  the  parapet  (which  has  been  cut  down  to  admit  the  guns)  in 
such  a manner  as  to  command  the  floating  battery,  which,  by  the  way,  was  launched 
this  morning.  It  is  rumored  that  the  attack  will  take  place  this  week.  I cannot 
believe  it,  as  preparations  are  as  yet  incomplete.  I see  a notice  of  another  Flag  to  be 
forwarded  to-day.  Too  complicated  I think.  It  would  be  next  to  impossible  to  work 
it  in  bunting.  I appreciate  deeply  your  kind  offers  of  service,  and  shall  avail  myself 
of  them  when  necessity  compels.  I shall  not  trouble  you  otherwise.  Only  keep  my 
long-cherished  wishes  in  remembrance,  and  when  you  can  aid  me,  you  know  with  what 
heartfelt  pleasure  and  gratitude  I would  take  up  my  abode  among  pictures  and  artists. 
Hope  deferred  has  made  me  sick,  and  I dare  not  dwell  on  the  possibility  that  at  least 
I might  be  gratified.  Do  not  forget  to  say  to  the  gentlemen  that,  in  bunting,  my  Flag 
would  be  a little  lighter  and  softer  in  effect. 

Yours,  with  sincere  regards, 

J.  BONNETHEAU. 

Of  course  the  inner  circle  can  be  enlarged  at  pleasure,  so  as  to  admit  other  stars. 

[Design  missing.] 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  25,  1861. 

Sir  : This  model  of  a Flag  for  our  Southern  Confederacy  is  respectfully  submitted 
to  the  committee.  We  send  it  in  the  belief  that  the  officers  of  the  Southern  Army  and 
Navy,  who  bear  our  Flag  over  land  and  sea,  will  approve  of  this  new  arrangement  of 
the  old  colors.  The  six  stripes  represent  the  six  Confederate  States.  Star  after  star, 
we  trust,  will  appear  in  our  blue  heaven. 

JASPER. 

[See  Plate  LXXIX.] 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  26,  1861. 

Hon.  Wm.  P.  Miles. 

Dear  Mr.  Miles  : As  we  have  seen  no  mention  of  a Seal  for  our  Confederacy,  I 
send  one,  in  favor  of  which  I think  that  more  might  be  said  than  the  modesty  of  the 
designer  has  allowed  him  to  express.  The  emblem  of  watchfulness  and  of  the  gener- 
osity which  does  not  strike  without  warning — the  rattlesnake — seems  well  suited  to  be 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  49 


a national  device,  though  not  to  be  borne  aloft  in  a Flag.  Again,  the  motion  is  always 
onward,  the  scales  are  not  able  of  retrograding.  The  position  chosen  is  in  exact 
accordance  with  nature,  and  each  feature  of  the  design  seems  to  be  well  carried  out. 

Wishing  you  all  success  in  your  new  task,  I am,  yours  truly, 

VICTORIA  MURDEN. 

Notice  the  rattles,  especially. 

[Design  missing.] 

A coiled  rattlesnake:  Melius  non  tangere;  or,  better,  Melius  non. 

On  the  obverse,  fifteen  stars  in  circle.  Ad  astra,  within  the  circle  of  stars,  may 
be  translated,  “To  your  colors.” 

[See  Plate  LXXX.] 

[This  short  description  of  a Seal,  without  date  or  place,  although  evidently  written 
by  a man,  has  such  an  affinity  to  the  design  (missing)  referred  to  in  Mrs.  Murden’s 
letter  of  February  26,  1861,  that  I have  placed  the  two  together. — R.  P.  T.] 


Mobile  Medical  College, 

Mobile , Ala.,  February  26,  1861. 

Thirteen  stripes — red,  white,  and  blue,  alternately.  A star  in  the  centre ; deep- 
blue  field,  with  as  many  white  stars  in  a circle  within  as  there  are  States  in  the  Con- 
federacy. 

All  of  which  is  very  respectfully  submitted. 

SYLVESTER  C.  LEWIS. 

[See  Plate  LXXXI.] 


Charleston,  S.  C.,  February  27,  1861. 

Hon.  Howell  Cobb, 

President  of  Provisional  Congress,  Montgomery , Ala. 

Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  you  will  find  some  designs  for  a Flag  of  the  Confederate 
States,  which  may  help  to  make  a Banner  for  the  beloved  South. 

Respectfully,  your  most  obedient  servant, 

ARTHUR  P.  FORD. 

[Designs  missing.] 


Selma,  Ala.,  February  28,1861. 

Committee  on  Flags,  Southern  Congress. 

Gentlemen  : I submit  for  your  consideration  some  models  for  the  Flag  of  our 
Union.  Significant  symbolism  and  simplicity  of  design  should  be  the  characteristics 
of  a Flag.  This  I have  aimed  at  in  the  model  I send  you. 

A black  castle  on  a blue  field,  surrounded  by  seven  stars.  A castle  is  a symbol  of 
strength  of  power  to  resist  and  defend ; it  also  suggests  the  sacredness  of  home.  Black 
is  typical  of  our  domestic  institution  of  negro  slavery.  With  the  castle  is  also  associated 
baronial  life  and  the  age  of  chivalry.  We  contend  that  the  most  valuable  effect  of  the 
institution  of  slavery  is  that  it  tends  to  develop  the  baronial  and  chivalrie  elements  of 
our  nature. 


50  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


As  for  the  stars,  no  exposition  is  needed.  “Forever  singing  as  they  shine,”  they 
represent  the  States  that  have  seceded,  and  only  differ  “as  one  star  differeth  from 
another  star  in  glory.”  I send  four  models,  all  of  which  are  but  variations  of  the 
same  idea. 

All  of  which  is  most  respectfully  submitted,  by  your  obedient  servant, 

WM.  M.  BRANTLY. 


[See  Plate  LXXXII.] 


Charleston  Insurance  and  Trust  Company, 

A To.  8 Broad  Street,  Charleston , March  2,  1861. 


ITon.  W.  P.  Miles. 


Dear  Sir:  Herewith  I send  you  two  designs  for  a National  Flag  for  the  Confed- 
erate States  of  America. 

As  you  will  readily  perceive,  the  seven  stars  and  seven  alternate  stripes  represent 
the  original  seven  seceding  States,  whilst  the  blue  field  is  sufficiently  large  to  admit  of 
a star  for  every  additional  State  that  may  hereafter  adopt  the  Constitution.  As  the 
Southern  States  claim  to  be  the  strict  constructionists  of  the  original  Constitution,  I 
hold  that  we  have  the  best  right  to  the  stars  and  stripes. 

Should  you  deem  them  worthy,  please  place  them  with  the  others  for  the  examina- 
tion of  the  committee. 

Very  respectfully,  yours,  &c. , 

J.  L.  HONOUR. 


[See  Plates  LXXXIII,  LXXXIV.] 


Hempstead,  Tex.,  March  12,  1861. 

Hon.  Jno.  H.  Reagan. 

Dear  Sir  : I ask  permission  to  present  for  your  consideration  the  enclosed  pattern 
for  a National  Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy,  by  the  adoption  of  which  the  South 
will  still  possess  the  glorious  Stars  and  Stripes,  or  at  least  their  rightful  portion  of 
them,  yet  differing  materially  from  the  old  Flag  of  the  Union,  by  simply  reversing  the 
stripes  from  a “horizontal”  to  a “perpendicular.”  There  are  eight  stars  and  eight 
stripes,  to  correspond  with  the  eight  seceding  States,  supposing  that  Arkansas  has 
gone  out. 

Ihere  are  many  intelligent  and  patriotic  citizens  in  the  South  that  still  treasure, 
with  feelings  of  pride  and  devotion,  their  attachment  to  the  “ Stars  and  Stripes  ; ” yet 
it  is  plain  that  the  North  and  South  cannot  maintain  the  same  Flag.  As  the  South  has 
seceded  from  the  Northern  States,  or  at  least  a portion  of  them,  would  it  not  be  proper 
for  the  South  to  make  the  change  in  the  National  Emblem,  as  she  has  in  her  govern- 
ment? Should  a similar  Flag  have  not  already  been  presented  to  the  committee,  and 
this  should  prove  worthy  of  your  consideration,  please  present  it  to  the  Flag  Com- 
mittee for  consideration/and  oblige, 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

MARTIN  K.  SNELL. 

The  stars  and  stripes  may  be  increased  as  other  States  come  in. 

[See  Plate  LXXXIVa.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  51 


Designs  submitted  by  E.  C.  Hancock,  April  — , 1861. 

State  Arms,  if  desired,  to  be  on  the  upper  flag-staff  corner. 


No.  1.— Confederation,  35  by  20. 


# 

* 

^ 4-  # 

Field,  crimson  ; cross,  blue,  3 feet  wide  ; stars,  white. 


No.  2. — Revenue,  20  by  15. 


Field,  crimson;  cross,  blue,  2 feet  wide  and  2 feet  from  edge  ; stars,  white. 
No.  3. — Union  Jack,  20  by  15. 

Form  same  as  No.  2;  field,  blue,  instead  of  crimson;  stars,  white. 

No.  4. — Pennant,  40  by  5. 


☆ 


☆ ☆☆☆☆☆ 

☆ 


Field,  blue  or  crimson : stars,  white. 
[See  F i. ate  LXXXV.] 


52  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Mississippi,  August  28,  18G1. 

Hon.  L.  P.  Walker, 

Secretary  of  War,  C.  S.  A.,  Richmond,  Ya. 

Honored  Sir:  Enclosed  you  will  find  a rather  daubed  model  of  what  I propose 
as  a permanent  Flag,  in  place  of  the  provisional  one,  for  the  Confederate  States  of 
America.  From  the  close  resemblance  of  the  stars  and  bars  of  our  present  Flag  to 
that  of  the  stars  and  stripes,  which  the  despot  Lincoln  (and  his  oligarchists)  has  appro- 
priated to  his  vile  purposes,  it  were  preferable  to  eke  out  something  unique.  The 
ground  of  the  Flag  on  both  sides  is  to  be  red — a darker  color  than  my  daub;  the 
Southern  Cross,  composed  of  eleven  blue  stars,  and  the  plants  of  cotton  and  tobacco, 
the  two  great  staples  of  our  Confederacy,  and  the  growth  of  which  rules  the  commerce 
of  the  world.  On  the  opposite  side,  the  capitals  C.  S.  A.  and  the  motto  “ Excelsior,” 
in  gilt.  This,  thrown  to  the  breeze,  will  truly  represent  our  nationality,  and  never  be 
liable  to  conflict  with  the  national  standard  of  any  other  people  on  either  the  land  or 
the  sea. 

Some  time  since,  1 wrote  the  Hon.  Jeff.  Davis,  President  C.  S.  A.,  in  relation  to 
a commission  of  Surgeon  in  the  Confederate  States  Army,  and  he  wrote  me  that  he 
had  referred  my  letter  to  your  consideration.  If  you  have,  in  future,  any  communica- 
tions with  me,  please  address  me  at  Lake  Providence,  La. 

Respectfully, 

T.  MORTON  LYLE. 


Red  ground  and  gilt  letters,  with  the  motto  “ Excelsior,”  in  gilt,  under  the  C.  S.  A. 
[See  Plates  LXXXVI,  LXXXVIL] 


President  of  the  Congress,  C.  S.  A. 


Richmond,  Ya.,  December  9,  18G1. 


Sir:  I take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  a paper,  addressed  to  the  honorable  body  over 
which  you  preside,  relative  to  an  alteration  of  the  Confederate  Flag,  and  with  it  a 
representation  of  the  substitute  I propose.  Should  you  deem  them  worthy  of  notice, 
you  will  do  me  the  favor  of  laying  them  before  Congress  for  consideration  ; if  other- 
wise, commit  them  to  the  flames.  Whatever  your  determination  may  be,  1 remain, 
with  sentiments  of  respect, 

Yours,  faithfully, 

JOSEPH  MYERS, 

Commander,  Virginia  Navy. 


Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  : 

With  diffidence  I submit  to  your  honorable  body  the  following  remarks,  suggestive 
of  a change  in  the  Confederate  Flag,  for  which  several  reasons  may  be  urged.  The 
first  is,  that  it  is  so  near  a copy  of  the  old  Union  Flag  that,  at  an  inconsiderable  dis- 
tance, they  cannot  readily  be  distinguished,  and  the  one  may  be  mistaken  for  the  other. 
This  was  exemplified  at  the  battle  of  Stone  Bridge,  on  the  21st  of  July.  At  a critical 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  53 


period  of  the  battle,  when  our  troops  were  with  difficulty  maintaining  their  position, 
General  Beauregard  observed  a column  advancing  apparently  to  outflank  him,  and, 
after  repeated  examinations  with  a powerful  spy-glass  to  ascertain  what  Flag  they  bore, 
had  concluded  that  it  was  the  enemy’s,  and  was  about  giving  an  order  for  a retrograde 
movement,  when  fortunately,  on  its  nearer  approach  and  being  more  fully  displayed  by 
the  breeze,  it  was  revealed  to  be  that  of  the  Confederacy.  This  discovery  changed  the 
nature  of  the  order  given,  and  the  result  was  a total  rout  of  the  enemy.  This  circum- 
stance has  led  him  to  adopt  a Flag,  to  be  carried  at  the  head  of  his  regiments  in  future 
actions,  which  he  calls  the  battle-flag,  to  prevent  the  recurrence  of  similar  mistakes. 
In  other  actions  like  difficulties  have  occurred  in  distinguishing  the  Flags. 

In  the  second  place,  the  Black  Republicans  have  claimed  the  Stars  and  Stripes  (as 
well  as  every  thing  else  that  appertained  to  the  late  Union)  as  belonging  to  them,  and, 
under  the  pretext  of  defending  it  as  the  emblem  of  that  Union,  have  inaugurated  an 
unjustifiable  and  barbarous  war  against  the  people  of  the  South,  who,  they  pretend, 
have  desecrated  it,  in  which  they  have  ignored  all  the  usages  of  civilized  nations. 
With  it  displayed  at  the  head  of  their  mercenary  hordes,  they  have  invaded  our  soil 
with  threats  of  the  subjugation  or  extermination  of  our  people.  Under  its  folds  they 
have  perpetrated  enormities  and  atrocities  exceeding  in  magnitude  those  of  the  Thugs 
and  Sepoys  of  India,  and  on  the  wreck  and  ruins  of  the  Union  and  Constitution,  both  of 
which  they  have  destroyed,  they  have  erected  a military  despotism  more  tyrannical  than 
that  of  any  nation  of  the  Old  World.  The  Flag  is  now,  instead  of  being,  as  formerly, 
the  emblem  of  Liberty,  that  of  lawless  tyranny  and  injustice.  It  is  consequently  odious 
in  the  sight  of  every  true-hearted  Southron,  and  as  the  people  of  the  two  sections  of  the 
late  Union  are  completely  antagonistical  in  every  thing,  there  should  be  no  likeness  in 
their  National  Emblems. 

As  under  our  present  Flag  many  brilliant  successes  have  been  achieved,  I retain 
its  component  parts  in  the  substitute  I offer,  but  so  differently  arranged  that  it  does  not 
resemble  its  Black  Republican  prototype.  The  following  is  a description  of  it : 

The  length  of  the  Flag  to  be  twice  its  width,  and  composed  of  four  equal-sized  bars 
of  different  colors,  arranged  perpendicularly  beside  each  other  in  the  following  order : 
the  first  bar,  next  to  the  staff,  to  be  blue ; the  second,  red ; the  third,  white  ; and  the 
fourth,  red.  The  length  of  each  bar  to  be  the  width  of  the  Flag,  and  the  width  of  the 
bar  one-half  its  length.  In  the  middle  of  the  blue  bar  to  be  emblazoned  a cluster  of 
white  stars,  composed  of  one  for  each  State,  emblematical  of  the  Union  of  the  Con- 
federacy composed  of  the  representatives  of  the  respective  States.  The  stars  to  be 
arranged  in  the  form  of  a cross,  emblematical  of  the  Southern  Cross  ; its  height  to  be 
one-half  of  the  length  of  the  bar,  and  to  occupy  its  middle  section.  Annexed  is  a 
representation  of  the  foregoing. 

The  above  is  respectfully  submitted  for  consideration  by 

JOSEPH  MYERS, 

Commander,  Virginia  Navy. 

[See  Plate  LXXXVIII.] 


54  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Texana,  Tex.,  March  31,  1862. 

Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal, 

Richmond , Va. 

Gentlemen  : I enclose  you  a design  for  a Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America,  suggested  to  my  mind  long  since.  The  under  portion,  of  black,  denotes  not 
only  the  richness  of  our  Southern  soil,  but  also  its  peculiar  institution — slavery  ; the 
blue,  the  sky  above;  the  red,  that  we  have  sealed  our  liberties  with  our  blood;  the 
white,  purity  and  eternal  freedom  ; the  rising  central  sun  denotes  the  South  emphat- 
ically, and  to  be  of  gilt  or  burnished  gold,  or  of  deep  orange-yellow. 

Respectfully,  yours,  &c., 

H.  D.  STARR. 


[See  Plate  LXXXIX.] 


Richmond,  Va.,  March  12,  18G4. 

His  Excellency  Jefferson  Davis. 

Your  Excellency:  I send  you  in  a design  for  a National  Flag.  Some  two 
months  since,  I showed  to  your  Excellency  a design  for  a picture  of  “The  rout  at 
Manassas,”  and  afterwards  made  a request  to  be  discharged  from  the  Army,  to  paint 
the  picture.  The  case  was  referred  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  who  referred  it  to  the 
commandant  at  Camp  Lee.  I again  ask  an  honorable  discharge  from  the  Army,  that 
I may  pursue  my  course  as  an  artist.  At  present  my  efforts  are  paralyzed,  and  the 
situation  I hold  in  the  service  of  the  Government  is  too  humiliating  to  be  longer  borne. 

I have  a design  for  a statue  of  “ The  South,”  which  I should  execute  with  a frenzy 
of  passion,  if  encouragement  were  given  me  ; but  Art  is  satisfied  with  nothing  less  than 
unrestrained  freedom. 

Mr.  Volk,  a native  of  Germany — a people  whose. brutality  and  vindictive  hatred  of 
the  South  is  well  known  to  your  Excellency — has  been  honored  with  a large  commis- 
sion for  an  equestrian  statue  of  “ Stonewall  Jackson.”  I hold  the  first  requisite  for  the 
production  of  any  great  work  of  art  is  nationality  ; hence,  I have  seen  this  with  regret. 

If  your  Excellency  decides  against  me,  I shall  abandon  all  idea  of  art,  and  go  at 
once  to  the  Army  and  take  what  fate  has  in  store  for  me. 

I have  the  honor  to  be, 

Your  Excellency’s  most  obedient  servant, 

ROBERT  NEWMAN. 


[Endorsement.] 


March  12,  1864. 

Secretary  of  War,  for  attention.  A design  for  C.  S.  Flag  accompanies. 

J.  D. 


[See  Plate  XC.] 


CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  55 


Camp  Near  Richmond,  December  21,  1864. 

Colonel  W.  P.  Miles,  M.  C. 

Dear  Colonel  : As  the  present  Flag  discussion  seems  to  turn  much  upon  what 
Flags  are  farthest  visible  and  distinguishable,  I beg  leave,  through  your  kindness,  to 
lay  before  the  committee  in  charge  of  the  matter  three  rough  sketches  of  Flags,  which 
must  always  be  easily  distinguishable,  whether  flying  or  drooping,  since  the  colors  cannot 
obscure  each  other.  As  to  their  beauty,  let  every  one  be  his  own  judge.  I prefer  No. 
1,  the  square  Flag,  which  a good  deal  of  experience  with  Flags  in  signaling,  both  before 
and  during  the  war,  has  convinced  me  is  by  far  the  best  shape  for  every  use  of  the  Flag. 

The  present  shape — according  to  the  law  (though  they  are  never  made  to  conform 
to  it) — the  “fly”  twice  the  length  of  the  “hoist,”  is  an  outrage  on  taste,  as  well  as 
utility,  sufficient  to  account  almost  for  the  ill  luck  which  seems  to  have  attended  it 
recently.  The  good  luck  appears  to  confine  itself  entirely  to  the  square  battle-flags  of 
the  A.  N.  V. 

Very  respectfully,  Colonel,  your  obedient  servant, 

E.  P.  ALEXANDER, 

Brigadier  General  of  Artillery. 

[See  Plates  XCI,  XCII,  XCIII.] 


Headquarters  Second  Corps, 

- Army  Northern  Virginia , December  27,  1864. 

Hon.  James  A.  Seddon, 

Secretary  of  War. 

Sir:  I have  the  honor  to  lay  before  you  the  following  design  of  a National  Flag 
for  the  Southern  Confederacy.  This  design  has  been  forwarded,  also,  to  the  Hon. 
Chairman  of  the  Flag  Committee,  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States ; but  fearing 
that  it  might  not  reach  its  destination,  I take  the  liberty  of  submitting  it  to  you,  hoping 
that  it  may  meet  with  your  favor.  This  Flag  is  emblematic  of  the  Confederate  States 
Government : 

The  red  color  represents  the  sanguinary  nature  of  the  war  through  which  it  has 
passed  in  order  to  establish  the  right  of  its  people  to  self-government.  The  white 
indicates  the  purity  of  its  foundation,  its  institutions,  and  its  intentions.  The  stars,  set 
in  a field  of  blue,  represent  the  individual  sovereignties  composing  the  Confederation, 
which  have  been  enabled  by  supporting  grace  from  Heaven  (represented  in  the  blue)  to 
emerge  from  the  lurid  cloud  under  which  it  was  threatened  with  destruction  (repre- 
sented in  the  red)  into  the  pure  and  bright  region  of  peace  and  prosperity  (represented 
in  the  white). 

The  Flag  is  composed  of  three  equal  horizontal  divisions — the  upper  third  being 
one-half  red,  the  other  white ; the  middle  division  is  entirely  of  blue,  in  which  are 
placed  the  stars  representing  the  number  of  States  in  the  Confederacy;  the  lower  third 
is  similar  to  the  upper  one,  being  one-half  red,  the  other  white. 

The  dimensions  of  the  Flag  are  determined  by  taking  three-fourths  of  the  entire 
length  for  the  width. 


56  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Great  simplicity  in  its  construction  is  claimed,  and  it  will  be  found  perfect  in  its 
proportions — one  entire  third  being  red  in  color,  one-third  white,  and  one-third  blue. 

I have  the  honor  to  be,  sir,  most  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

JNO.  R.  BLEDSOE, 

Sergeant,  Co.  D,  16th  Miss.  Begt. 

[Endorsements.] 

Headquarters  Second  Army  Corps, 

December  27,  1864. 

Sergeant  Bledsoe  is  clerk  at  these  headcjuarters.  This  design  for  a Flag  I consider 
very  beautiful,  and  ask  for  it  a respectful  consideration. 

J.  B.  GORDON, 

Major  General , Commanding. 

Headquarters,  December  27,  1864. 

Respectfully  forwarded  for  the  consideration  of  the  Secretary  of  War.  This 
design  has  the  merit  of  originality  and  marked  difference  from  the  generality  of  Flags, 
as  far  as  my  knowledge,  which  is  limited,  extends  ; besides,  as  far  as  I can  judge  from 
the  model,  possesses  beauty. 

R.  E.  LEE, 

General. 

January  3,  1865. 

Chief  of  Engineers:  Noted.  File. 

J.  A.  S., 

Secretary  of  War. 

Engineer  Bureau,  January  4,  1865. 

Respectfully  returned  to  the  Hon.  Secretary  of  War.  The  Flag  within  is  pleasing 
to  the  eye,  but  as  it  does  not  embrace  the  “ battle-flag”  under  which  our  struggle  has 
been  made,  I cannot  recommend  its  adoption. 

J.  F.  GILMER, 

Major  General,  and  Chief  Engineer  Bureau. 

[See  Pi. ate  XCIV.] 


Flag  proposed  for  the  Southern  Confederacy. 

Seven  blue  stripes,  for  the  seven  seceding  States  taking  the  lead. 

Seven  white  stars  on  a red  field,  and  a star  to  be  added  for  every  incoming  State. 
Proposed  by  a gentleman  of  Louisville,  Ky. 

[See  Plate  XCV.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGN  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  57 

Design  of  Theophii.us  A.  Joxes,  Lauderdale  County,  town  of  Florence,  Ala. 

This  design  is  intended  as  a suitable  Ensign  for  the  Confederate  States  of  America, 
and  is  allegorical.  The  ground  is  of  sky-blue.  At  the  bottom  is  an  embankment  of 
clouds,  typical  of  the  old  Union;  rising  from  their  midst  is  an  eagle,  our  bird  of  Liberty, 
winging  its  flight  from  them  upward  toward  the  starry  firmament  above,  in  which  is 
our  Southern  constellation.  The  eagle  has  taken  the  Cap  of  Liberty  with  him  and  has 
it  in  his  talons.  State  sovereignty,  being  the  fundamental  idea  of  our  Government, 
and  having  been  denied  us  under  the  former  regime , is  appropriately,  we  think,  inscribed 
on  the  Flag  of  our  new  Union.  On  the  same  scroll  with  it  is  written  Sic  itur  ad  astra, 
meaning  that  ‘ ‘ State  sovereignly  is  the  way  to  the  haven  of  our  destiny,”  and  is  intended 
for  the  world,  but  more  especially  for  the  remaining  members  of  the  United  States. 
The  design  is  simple  and  unique;  we  think  it  beautiful.  The  stripes  are  intentionally 
discarded,  but  the  stars  are  retained — “fit  emblem  of  our  fame;”  also  the  eagle,  as  the 
representative  of  our  nationality,  having  placed  in  his  mouth  the  shibboleth  of  our 
Union,  State  sovereignty;  and  also  the  point,  our  destiny — ad  astra.  In  his  talons  is 
the  Cap  of  Liberty,  torn  from  the  grasp  of  those  unworthy  longer  to  be  its  custodians. 
Stripped  of  its  stripes,  let  the  “Star  Spangled  Banner”  still  be  ours. 

[See  Plate  XCVI.] 


Design  for  the  National  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

Seven  stripes  : one  for  each  of  the  original  States  forming  the  Confederacy,  namely, 
South  Carolina,  Georgia,  Florida,  Alabama,  Mississippi,  Louisiana,  and  Texas. 

Seven  stars  in  the  blue : one  for  each  of  the  States  in  the  Confederacy,  and  one 
added  for  each  State  that  may  be  admitted  hereafter ; all  the  stars  with  seven  rays. 

Proportions:  length,  two  and  a half  times  the  breadth  ; blue  ground,  one-fifth  the 
length,  and  width  three  stripes. 

The  old  design  of  the  thirteen  stjirs  and  stripes  is  preserved,  and  the  new  Flag  is 
readily  distinguished  from  the  old.  It  has  Liberty  and  America  on  it,  and  the  golden 
number  seven  throughout. 

Texas  is  not  yet  in,  but  will  be  in  time  to  vote  on  the  Flag. 

[See  Plate  XCVIL] 


Our  Southern  Sun. 

Among  the  Southern  constellations  perhaps  the  “ Phenix”  would  be  more  appro- 
priate and  emblematical  than  the  “Southern  Cross.”  The  “Southern  Crown”  is  also 
suggested  in  this  connection. 

It  is  submitted  that  the  Flag  representing  our  “ Southern  Sun  ” would  be  a brilliant 
emblem  of  our  Southern  political  system,  and  of  that  harmony  and  stability  which 
result  from  an  identity  of  interests  and  institutions. 


58  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGN  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


The  design  is  entirely  different  from  that  of  any  other  National  Flag  known,  and 
can  be  readily  adapted  to  such  modifications  as  may  be  required  by  any  future  addition 
of  States,  &c.  The  Flag  can  also  be  readily  made  of  bunting,  and  will  be  distinctly 
seen  at  a great  distance.  Each  alternate  ray  of  the  central  sun  may  be  composed  of 
red,  if  any  partiality  is  entertained  for  this  color.  The  number  of  rays  may  be  made 
to  correspond  with  the  number  of  States. 

[See  Plates  XCVIII,  XCIX.] 

A blue  or  red  field,  with  large  sun  in  centre,  without  any  stars,  is  suggested. 

[See  Plate  C.] 

No  description. 

[See  Plate  CL] 

A plain  blue  field,  with  the  stars  arranged  (as  in  the  design)  in  three  rows,  would 
be  a neat  and  simple  device. 

[This  suggestion  would  produce  a Flag  similar  to  that  submitted  by  Mr.  E.  C. 
Hancock,  in  April,  1801,  but  with  reversed  colors.  (See  Plate  LXXXV.) — R.  P.  T.] 

No  description. 

The  emblazoning  may  be  varied  by  substituting  blue  stars  for  red  on  the  white 
field,  or  using  red  stars  altogether. 

[See  Plate  CII.] 

Cotton  plant,  or  circle  of  stars  around  the  plant. 

[See  Plate  CIII.] 

V 

No  description. 

[See  Plates  CIV,  CV.] 

The  following  mottoes,  hastily  prepared,  are  submitted: 

Reges  sumus  omnes,  declaratory  of  the  term  of  the  compact  and  the  doctrine  of 
State  rights. 

Protedio  non  possessio,  the  proper  office  and  the  true  theory  of  government. 


Description  of  a few  patterns  for  Banner  for  the  Confederate  States  of  the  South. 

No.  1.  The  groundwork  is  striped  “red  and  blue,”  in  which  is  an  oval  having  a 
“sky-blue”  ground  and  containing  a “cotton  stock;”  on  the  upper  inner  angle  is  a 
“rising  sun,”  surrounded  by  a “ blazing  star”  for  each  State  in  the  Confederacy. 


CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


59 

No.  2.  Similar  to  No.  1,  except  having  a “Greek  Cross”  (a  symbol  of  Chris- 
tianity) in  place  of  rising  sun. 

No.  3.  A cobalt  blue  ground,  in  the  centre  of  which  is  a “cotton  stock”  in  full 
bloom;  in  the  upper  inner  corner  is  a “ Greek  Cross,”  encircled  by  a blazing  star  for 
each  State. 

No.  4.  A red  and  blue  striped  ground,  with  device  in  upper  corner,  same  as  No.  3. 

No.  5.  A light  blue  ground,  with  a cotton  stock  in  centre  leaning  towards  the 
upper  flag-staff  corner,  in  which  is  a “ blazing  sun  ” amidst  a “galaxy  of  stars,”  one 
for  each  State. 

No.  6.  A red  and  blue  striped  ground,  in  which  is  a cobalt  blue  diamond  figure, 
containing  a cotton  plant  in  full  bloom ; in  the  upper  inner  angle  is  the  sun  rising  on  a 
quarter  (circle)  of  the  globe  and  surrounded  by  a star  for  each  State. 

No.  7.  Similar  to  No.  5,  but  having  an  “all-seeing  eye”  in  place  of  blazing  sun. 

No.  8.  The  groundwork  of  red,  white,  and  blue  interwoven,  in  the  centre  of  which 
is  a cotton  stock  on  a green  ground. 

No.  9.  A “striped  ground,”  in  centre  of  which  is  a cobalt  blue  oval  containing  a 
ripe  cotton  plant,  surrounded  by  a galaxy  of  “blazing  stars.” 

No.  10.  An  angular-striped  red,  white,  and  blue  ground,  in  the  centre  of  which  is 
a figure  as  No.  9.  (N.  B. — The  centre  figure  in  this  drawing  is  shown  too  small.) 

No.  11.  The  ground  of  three  horizontal  stripes  of  red,  white,  and  blue,  having  a 
centre  figure  same  as  No.  9. 

No.  12.  Blue  and  red  angular-striped  ground,  having  a centre  figure  same  as  No.  9. 

A “gray  eagle”  may  be  very  properly  used  instead  of  the  “Greek  Cross”  or 
rising  sun,  or  perhaps  a combination  from  some  of  those  submitted  may  produce  one 
that  will  suit. 

All  the  above  submitted,  with  much  respect,  by 

P.  J.  ANDERSON, 

Montgomery , Ala. 

[See  Plates  CVI  to  CXVII.] 


Rough  design,  submitted  by  Samuel  White,  of  Charleston,  S.  C. 
[See  Plate  CXYIIL] 


Designs. 

No.  1.  Scarlet  ground ; white  cross  at  right  angles ; stars  in  upper  left-hand  corner. 
No.  2.  Scarlet  ground ; white  diagonal  cross. 

No.  3.  Scarlet  ground;  purple  right-angle  cross.;  white  stars  in  upper  left-hand 
corner. 

No.  4.  Three  scarlet  stripes,  with  two  white  stripes  intervening;  centre  scarlet 
stripe  broader  than  the  others. 


60  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


No.  5.  Scarlet  ground;  upper  left-hand  corner  blue,  with  white  diagonal  cross, 
and  perhaps  white  stars  between  arms  of  the  cross. 

No.  6.  Scarlet  ground,  with  one  large  white  star  in  the  centre. 

[Endorsement.] 


Given  to  me  by  J.  Legare,  of  S.  C.,  Engineer  Corps. 
[See  Plates  CXIX  to  CXXIV.] 


C.  R.  MILES. 


Designs  submitted  by  McGuigin  and  Bhaisted,  247  Julia  street,  New  Orleans,  La. 
[See  Plates  CXXV,  CXXVI.] 


Designs  submitted  by  W.  P.  Hilliard. 

The  cross  on  the  second  design  to  be  white. 
[See  Plates  CXXYII,  CXXVIIL] 


Designs  submitted  by  “ West.” 

[See  Plates  CXXIX  to  CXXXIX.] 


Design  submitted  by  J.  K.  Hamilton. 

As  many  rays  to  the  sun  as  there  are  States  in  the  Confederacy ; or  without  the 
sun,  and  a circle  of  red  stars  in  the  centre,  a star  for  each  State. 

[See  Plate  CXL.] 


Designs  submitted  by . 

No.  1.  The  field  to  consist  of  fifteen  stripes,  eight  red  and  seven  white.  The  stars 
(as  many  as  there  are  States)  on  blue  ground  and  white  centres. 

No.  2.  The  field  to  consist  of  fifteen  stripes,  eight  red  and  seven  white.  A circle 
of  blue  in  the  centre,  and  number  of  white  stars  according  to  number  of  States. 

No.  3.  In  this  design  the  original  colors  are  preserved,  though  the  combination  of 
blue  and  red  is  not  as  good  as  red  and  white ; to  relieve  the  heavy  character  of  the 
above  combination,  the  union  is  white,  and  will  insure  its  distinctiveness  from  the 
United  States  Flag. 

[See  Plates  CXLI,  CXLII,  CXLIII.] 


Designs  submitted  b^ — — . 

[See  Plates  CXLIY  to  CLVI.] 

[The  designs  are  numbered  from  0 to  18,  inclusive.  No.  1 to  5 are  missing.  Not 
a word  of  description,  except  that  opposite  No.  16' is  the  remark,  in  pencil:  “Rather 
too  British.” — R.  P.  T. ] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  61 

Designs  submitted  by . 

[See  Plates  CLVUto  CLXVI.] 


Design  submitted  by  J.  Alma  Pei.ot,  Charleston,  S.  C. 
[See  Plate  CLXVIL] 


Designs  submitted  by  — — 

[See  Plates  CLXYIII  to  CLXX.] 


This  Flag  is  designed  to  represent  these  Confederate  States.  The  seven  white 
stripes  represents  the  States  in  friendly  relations  with  the  nations  of  the  earth.  The 
red  stripes  represents  the  States,  if  insulted,  to  fight — that  is,  they  will  take  blood. 
The  ye^pw  stars  represent  the  States  in  friendly  relations  with  the  nations  of  the  earth. 
The  crescent  moon  represents  the  stars,  and  the  stars  is  the  States  represent  the  moon, 
which  is  all  the  States  combined.  The  red  stars  represent  the  moon  in  war.  The  red 
moon  represents  the  red  stars  in  war,  all  combined  together.  The  diamond  rattle- 
snake is  the  people  of  the  Confederate  States.  The  moon  is  the  nation  and  the  snake 
is  the  people.  The  diamond  rattlesnake,  you  may  tread  all  around  him ; he  will  not 
strike ; if  you  tread  on  him  he  then  will  sing  his  rattle  and  give  you  full  time  to  leave  ; 
if  you  don’t,  he  strikes — it  is  certain  death.  The  motto  over  him,  “Don’t  tread  on 
me;  if  you  do,  it  is  certain  death.”  This  Flag,  I think,  will  suit,  and  represent  us  as 
the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

JOHN  SANSOM, 

Of  Alabama. 

[See  Plate  CLXXI.] 

[The  peculiar  phraseology  has  been  faithfully  followed.  The  spelling,  of  course, 
is  corrected. — R.  P.  T.] 


Designs  submitted  by 

[See  Plates  CLXXII,  CLXXI H.] 


* * * * * 

Dear  Sir  : Proposed  Flag  for  the  new  Confederation.  Do  retain  the  stars  and 
stripes.  It  belongs  to  the  South  as  much  as  to  the  North.  It  is  not  an  abolition  Flag. 
Colonel  Jefferson  Davis  (now  President  Davis)  won  glory  under  it  in  Mexico ; so  did 
the  Palmetto  Regiment. 

A SOUTHERNER. 

One  star  and  one  stripe  for  each  State — South  Carolina,  Florida,  Mississippi, 
Alabama,  Georgia,  Louisiana,  and  Texas  on  the  22d  instant. 

[See  Plate  CLXXI V.] 


62  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Designs  submitted  by . 

[See  Plates  CLXXV,  CLXXVI.] 


Design  submitted  by . 

Six  red  and  six  white  stripes  (being  a color  of  each  for  each  of  the  six  States  now 
in  council).  In  the  upper  left-hand  corner  a blue  ensign,  containing  a large  six-rayed 
star  to  symbolize  the  Southern  Confederacy,  said  large  star  encircled  by  six  small  stars, 
being  one  for  each  State  of  the  present  Confederacy.  Other  smaller  stars  to  be  added 
to  the  galaxy  as  fast  as  the  other  Southern  States  join  the  Confederacy.  The  six-rayed 
stars  and  six  alternate  stripes  of  red  and  white  to  be  preserved  in  remembrance  of  the 
six  States  first  seceding  and  forming  the  new  Government. 

[See  Plate  CLXXVII.] 


Design  submitted  by 

[See  Plate  CLXXVIII.] 


* * * * * 

My  Dear  Sir:  Allow  me  to  suggest  as  a Southern  Flag  the  following,  which  has 
these  primary  merits : 

1.  It  is  symbolical — the  white,  of  Southern  right ; and  the  Cross,  of  Southern  faith 
and  glory. 

2.  It  is  unlike  any  other  Flag  in  the  world,  except  the  Russian,  which  is  easily 
distinguishable  from  it  as  bearing  the  Cross  of  St.  Andrew,  without  stars. 

3.  It  is  strictly  correct  in  heraldry — color  on  metal. 

4.  It  is  extremely  handsome,  haughty,  and  brilliant,  at  once,  without  being  flaunting. 

5.  It  may  be  discerned  at  any  distance. 

6.  It  can  be  varied  in  color,  so  as  to  be  made  a revenue  Flag,  an  union,  and  other 
modifications,  as  easily  as  the  English  colors  themselves. 

7.  It  is  utterly  unlike  the  existing  American  Banner. 

And  here  it  is : 

On  a white  field,  an  azure  cross  ; the  stars  in  the  cross. 

A.  SOUTHERNER. 


[See  Plate  CLXXIX.] 


Design  submitted  by  — 
[See  Plate  CLXXX.] 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  68 


Design  submitted  by  a S.  C.  Alabamian. 


Design  submitted  by 

[See  Plate  CLXXXII.] 


Committee  in  the  matter  of  the  Coat  of  Arms 

and  Motto  for  the  Southern  Republic. 

Gentlemen  : The  writer,  whose  respectability  is  vouched  for  by  the  Hon.  B.  M. 
Hill,  who  will  hand  you  this,  begs  leave  to  suggest  to  your  consideration  the  matters 
set  forth  in  the  accompanying  slip  of  newspaper.  The  article  has  been  extensively 
copied,  and  has  met  with  general  approbation.  There  have  been  or  may  be  some 
objections  raised  which  the  writer  begs  leave  to  consider  and  reply  to : 

1.  In  the  first  place,  it  may  be  said  (though  it  has  not  been)  that  both  the  motto 
and  the  device  have  been  used  before.  To  this  there  are  three  answers  : 1st.  If  they 
have  been  used  before,  their  use  has  been  so  limited  that  very  few  persons  have  ever 
seen  them.  2d.  It  is  not  certain  that  they  ever  have  been  used  before.  No  one  has 
intimated  such  a thing,  although  the  article  has  attracted  much  attention  in  the  news- 
papers. The  writer  has  a vague  idea  that  he  has  seen  this  motto  used  in  connection 
with  the  Phenix,  but  he  has  no  idea  where  it  was  ; if  at  all,  it  may  have  been  in  some 
old  book  of  heraldry,  musty  with  age  and  long  since  forgotten.  8d.  Originality  con- 
sists not  in  the  invention  of  terms,  but  in  the  application  of  them.  Certainly  the  bird 


64  CORRESPONDENCE— DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

#■ 

and  the  motto  together  do  express  the  very  idea  which,  of  all  others,  we  wish  to  pro- 
mulgate and  proclaim,  and,  so  far  as  is  known  or  believed,  this  use  of  them  has  never 
been  made. 

2.  Another  objection  is  that  the  emblem  ought  to  be  founded  on  fact,  not  on  fable. 
To  this  it  may  be  replied  that  if  it  is  a fable  it  is  a classic  one,  being  now  three  thousand 
years  old,  and  is  thus  hoary  with  antiquity.  It  is  indeed  more  than  classic.  It  is  a 
fable  referred  to,  and  thus  dignified  and  ennobled  by  Holy  Writ.  The  reference,  in 
Psalm  ciii:  5,  is  doubtless  to  the  fable  of  the  Phenix,  although  “Eagle”  is  the  word 
there  used.  This  allusion  of  the  inspired  poet  raises  the  fable  to  the  peerage,  and  the 
tribute  of  inspiration  itself  to  its  beauty  puts  it  almost  on  a level  with  truth. 

3.  A third  objection  is  that  the  Phenix  has  so  often  been  used  in  connection  with 
common  matters  that  it  has  lost  its  dignity.  Thus  we  have  Phenix  Cotton  Mills, 
Phenix  Guano,  &c.  To  this  it  may  be  replied  that  the  same  may  be  said  of  any  other 
emblem.  Have  we  not  Eagle  Cotton  Mills  too  ; and  Eagle  Cooking  Stoves;  and  Eagle 
Boot  Blacking?  Does  the  head  of  Washington  lose  its  dignity  or  its  majesty  because 
it  is  seen  on  a postage-stamp  or  on  a ginger-cake?  Is  Victoria  less  a queen  because 
her  image  and  superscription  may  be  seen  on  a shilling,  or  handled  by  a beggar  on  a 
half-penny?  Is  Napoleon  less  an  emperor  because  we  have  the  “ Napoleon  Neck-tie?  ” 

It  should  have  been  said  in  reply  to  the  second  objection,  but  was  forgotten  at  the 
proper  time,  and  is  therefore  introduced  now,  that  there  is  no  just  reason  why  the 
emblem  should  necessarily  be  founded  on  fact.  There  is  just  one  use  for  an  emblem, 
and  only  one,  and  that  is  to  express  an  idea.  This  is  all  that  is  expected  of  it,  and  if 
it  answers  this  end  it  is  false  criticism  to  complain  that  it  does  not  answer  some  other. 

The  objections  being,  as  the  writer  thinks,  removed,  it  may  be  well  now  to  consider 
some  amendments  which  have  been  suggested — 

t 

1.  “ Splendidius  ” has  been  suggested  instead  of  “lucidius.”  The  writer  sug- 
gests, in  reply,  that  the  former  word  is  more  boastful,  and  therefore  not  in  as  good 
taste  as  the  latter.  Moreover,  the  English  word  “splendid”  has  been  used  in  such  a 
variety  of  ways  that  there  is  an  ambiguity  in  its  meaning.  Not  so  with  the  word 
“lucid.” 

2.  “Lucidior,”  the  adjective,  has  been  suggested  in  place  of  “lucidius,”  the 
adverb.  The  writer  objects  that  “ lucidior”  qualifies  the  noun — i.  e.,  makes  the  bird 
brighter.  “Lucidius”  qualifies  the  verb — i.  e.,  makes  the  rising  brighter,  the  flight  more 
glorious.  The  former  is  more  boastful  and  also  less  poetic,  and  therefore  not  in  the 
best  taste.  Hence  the  adverb  is  preferable. 

3. '  Broken  pillars  have  been  suggested  as  an  accompaniment  to  the  Phenix.  The 
writer  objects  that  this  produces  what  rhetoricians  call  a “ mixed  metaphor.”  Broken 
pillars  could  only  represent  broken  States,  or  republics  passed  away.  The  ashes  from 
which  the  Phenix  rises  represent  our  former  state,  and  that,  too,  without  the  disa- 
greeable idea  of  breakage.  One  emblem  to  represent  one  thing  is  enough.  Stars, 
also,  have  been  suggested.  Stars  and  pillars,  both,  would  make  a horrid  mixture 
of  metaphors,  and  would  be  literally  bringing  heaven  and  earth  together.  Perhaps, 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  65 

however,  a sky  of  stars  might  be  allowed,  the  stars  representing  States,  and  the  bird 
representing  the  ism — republicanism;  but  even  this  is  objectionable,  because  too  com- 
plex. The  simpler  the  emblem  the  better. 

With  deference  to  the  honorable  committee,  the  writer  subscribes  himself, 

Very  respectfully, 

T. 

[Newspaper  Article.] 

The  brief  career  of  the  United  States  of  America  among  the  nations  of  the  earth 
will  doubtless  be  used  by  many  as  an  argument  to  prove  that  free  government  is  a 
failure,  and,  so  far  as  the  argument  may  meet  with  success,  it  will  tend  to  strengthen 
thrones  and  retard  the  progress  of  republican  principles.  While  it  is  the  belief  of 
many  of  our  citizens,  it  is  the  hope  of  all,  that  time  will  show  this  argument  to  be 
fallacious ; that,  though  our  republic  has  fallen,  another  will  rise  from  its  ruins,  more 
excellent  and  more  glorious  than  the  first.  Nothing  could  be  more  appropriate  as  a 
National  Emblem  than  something  which  would  embody  this  idea,  and  thus  proclaim  to 
the  world  our  unshaken  faith  in  the  principles  of  government  inaugurated  by  our 
revolutionary  sires. 

There  is  a story  of  a fabulous  bird,  called  the  Phenix,  which  never  died,  which 
never  could  kill,  but  which,  in  process  of  time,  took  fire  by  spontaneous  combustion, 
and  was  so  tenacious  of  life  that  vitality  pertained  to  its  very  ashes,  from  which  ashes 
arose  another  Phenix,  or  rather  the  same  in  another  form,  revivified,  rejuvenated,  and 
more  glorious  than  before. 

The  writer  begs  leave  to  suggest  to  his  countrymen  that  we  adopt  as  a National 
Emblem  the  representation  of  a Phenix,  surrounded  by  flames  and  rising  from  the 
fire,  with  the  motto  Surgo  lucidius , “ I rise  more  brightly.” 

By  this  emblem  we  shall  announce  to  the  nations  that  our  republic  came  to  an  end, 
not  from  outside  causes,  there  being  nothing  without  having  power  enough  to  destroy 
it — rather  that  its  life  never  came  to  an  end  at  all ; that  its  form  only  was  changed ; 
that  from  the  fires  of  revolution  it  has  arisen,  endowed  with  new  vitality,  with  reinvig- 
orated wing,  to  take  a more  sublime  flight  than  the  eagle  which  preceded  it.  We  shall 
also  express  our  conviction  that,  though  forms  may  differ,  republican  principles  can 
never  die ; and  we  shall  furthermore  express  our  gratitude  to  Him  who  has  watched 
over  us  thus  far,  and  who  “satisfieth  our  mouth  with  good  things,  so  that  our  youth  is 
renewed  like  the  eagle’s.”  (Psalm  ciii:  5.) 

Thus,  wherever  our  National  Emblem  is  seen,  it  will  not  crush,  but  inspire  the 
hopes  of  the  lovers  of  freedom,  and  shake  the  confidence  of  monarchs  in  the  founda- 
tion of  their  thrones. 

[See  Plate  CLXXXIII.] 


* * * * * 

The  undersigned  proposes  the  following  design  for  a Flag  for  the  “Confederate 
States  of  America:” 

In  the  extreme  (upper)  left-hand  corner  of  the  Flag,  upon  a blue  ground,  let  there 
be  a large  white  star  (representing  the  Confederate  States  of  America),  and  within  or 


66  CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


without  this  white  star  let  there  be  a chain,  with  a number  of  links  corresponding  to 
the  number  of  States  (say  seven),  and  within  each  link  let  there  be  a red  star,  repre- 
senting the  separate  sovereignty  of  the  several  States. 

Stripes  of  alternate  red,  white,  and  blue  (or,  say  only  crimson  and  blue,  or  crimson 
and  white). 

The  Flag  to  be  finished  with  a golden-colored  border. 


[See  Plate  CLXXXIY.] 


“ALABAMA.” 


Design  submitted  by  T.  0.  Chestney,  Major  and  Assistant  Adjutant  General. 
[See  Plate  CLXXXV.] 


Design  submitted  by  

[See  Plate  CLXXXVI.] 


Design  submitted  by  — - — 
[See  Plate  CLXXXVI  1.] 


Hon.  W.  Porciier  Miles. 

Dear  Sir:  Seeing  that  you  have  been  appointed  one  of  the  “Committee  on 
selecting  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States  of  America,”  I beg  leave  respectfully  to 
submit  for  your  consideration  the  following  design  : 

A Flag  of  blue  silk  azure,  not  dark  blue.  On  one  side  a magnificent  golden  crown, 
studded,  encircled,  or  set  with  seven  stars,  clearly  defined  by  the  azure  crown  being  dis- 
tinctly seen  in  the  requisite  form  ; and  each  star  having  wrought  in  gold,  upon  its  surface, 
the  Coat  of  Arms  and  motto  of  the  State  it  represents. 

As  star  after  star  rises  above  the  distant  horizon,  and  is  added  to  this  brilliant 
galaxy,  it  can  take  its  place  in  due  order  among  the  “crown-jewels  ” of  our  diadem,  but 
it  must  be  evident  that  the  “seven,”  now  fixed  and  glittering  in  the  broad  firmament 
of  the  boundless  future  stretched  before  us.  must  ever  remain  the  peerless  Pleiades  of 
this  illustrious  constellation. 

Above  and  beyond  the  crown,  and  half  encircling  it,  I would  suggest  the  words, 
Dominus  Regnavit. 

On  the  opposite  side  of  the  Flag  I propose  “the  rising  sun,”  golden-orbed,  and 
gilding  with  its  rays  the  greater  portion  of  the  surface  of  the  Flag,  room  being  left, 
however,  for  the  inscription,  Gloria  patrice,  above  and  in  a half-circular  form. 

The  destinies  of  our  newborn  Government  are  immeasurably  great.  Let  us  then 
adopt  such  majestic  and  gorgeous  symbols  as  are  not  only  fit  and  beautiful  emblems  of 


CORRESPONDENCE — DESIGNS  FOR  FLAG  AND  SEAL.  67 

its  present,  but  grandly  typify  the  power  and  beneficience,  strength,  triumph,  and 
expansion  of  its  glorious  future  under  Him  and  unto  whom  be  all  the  praise  and 
power,  honor,  glory,  and  dominion. 

It  seems  to  me  that  the  fitness  and  adaptedness  of  these  symbols  must  be  so 
apparent  that  it  will  be  unnecessary  to  explain  the  application  which  suggests  itself  to 
my  mind,  and  I would  only  add  that  I think  a very  appropriate  device  for  the  “ Great 
Seal  of  the  State,”  as  well  as  for  the  “Arms”  and  a motto  for  the  Confederacy,  might 
also  be  found  in  the  design  for  a Flag  which  I have  the  honor  of  presenting  to  you. 
Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

A LADY  OF  SOUTH  CAROLINA. 

[See  Plates  CLXXXVIII,  CLXXXIX.] 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC., 

RELATING  TO  THE 

CONFEDEEATE  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


APPENDI  :x 1?  IR,  T III. 


* 


- 


I N DEX. 


Editorials,  communications , &c. , relating  to  Confederate  Flag  and  Seal. 

Page. 


Anderson,  L.  B.,  Dr. 

April  6, 1863. — Submits  design  for  a Flag 63 

Baumgarten,  J. 

February  15,  1861. — Offers  his  services  as  an  engraver 1 

Beauregard,  G.  T.,  Gen. 

February  3, 1872. — Encloses  copy  of  his  letter  to  Captain  Preble,  U.  S.  Navy,  on  the  origin  of  the 

Battle  Flag 93 

June  26, 1872. — Encloses  letter  of  Colonel  Miles  giving  additional  information  on  the  origin  of  the 

Battle  Flag 95 

Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury. 

December  31, 1861. — The  Battle  Flag 15 

January  4, 1862. — Richmond  news  and  gossip 16 

January  11,  1862. — The  Stars  and  Bars  (poetry) 19 

January  17,  1862. — Richmond  news  and  gossip 20 

January  27, 1862. — The  Battle  Flag . 22 

February  21, 1862. — Design  of  the  new  Confederate  Flag 27 

March  6, 1862. — The  Flag  of  the  Confederacy 28 

March  7, 1862. — The  Flag  question 31 

April  7,  1862. — The  Flag  of  the  South  (poetry) 36 

April  21, 1862. — The  new  Flag  of  the  Confederacy 39 

April  22,  1862.— Our  Flag 42 

May  3, 1862. — Critic  on  the  proposed  Flag 43 

October  7, 1862. — The  Confederate  Seal 52 

Charleston  (S.  C.)  Tri-weekly  Mercury. 

April  22,  1862. — Richmond  news  and  gossip v 43 

Gordon,  J.  T. 

August  23. 1863. — Forwards  express  company’s  receipt  for  box  said  to  contain  a Confederate  Seal 85 

Cruger,  Lewis. 

, — , 1862. — Submits  two  designs  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag 46 

Hancock,  E.  C. 

February  2, 1872. — Forwards  original  Flag  designed  by  him  at  the  request  of  Colonel  Walton 95 

La  Barre,  Francis. 

, — , 1863. — Replies  to  article  on  the  subject  of  engraving  the  Confederate  Seal 82 

Miles,  William  Porcher. 

August  27, 1861. — Gives  his  views  on  subject  of  the  Confederate  Flag 2 

May  14, 1872. — On  question  as  to  who  designed  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag 96 

Montgomery  (Ala.)  Advertiser. 

March  5,  1861. — Raising  of  the  first  Confederate  Flag 1 

July  — , 1862. — The  Stars  and  the  Bars  (poetry) 44 

New  Orleans  (La.)  Times. 

June  25, 1872. — Letter  of  Colonel  Miles  on  question  of  origin  of  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag 96 

Raleigh  (N.  C.)  Register. 

, — , 18—. — The  Flag  and  Seal  question 55 


ii 


INDEX. 


Editorials,  communications,  &c. — Continued. 


Page. 

Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch. 

October  23, 1861. — Proposed  change  of  the  Confederate  Flag 4 

October  24, 1861. — The  Flag  of  secession  (poetry) 5 

November  14, 1861. — The  Confederate  Flag 5 

December  7, 1861. — The  Confederate  Flag 6 

December  7, 1861. — Stand  by  that  Flag  (poetry) 8 

December  9, 1861. — The  Confederate  Flag 9 

December  10, 1861. — The  Confederate  Flag 10 

December  17, 1861. — The  Confederate  Flag 14 

December  27, 1861. — The  Flag 15 

December  31, 1861. — Singular  State  Flag 15 

January  2, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 16 

January  7, 1862.— A Flag 18 

January  11, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag  (poetry) 18 

January  23, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag  and  the  Southern  Cross 20 

January  31, 1862. — The  Flag 22 

February  6, 1862. — Another  Flag 23 

March  8, 1862. — The  Flag 31 

June  30, 1S62. — Freedom’s  new  Banner  (poetry) 43 

April  25,  1863. — The  Flag  and  Seal 71 

May  13, 1863.— Our  Flag 79 

Richmond  (Va.)  Daily  Express. 

March  30, 1865. — The  Southern  Cross  (poetry) 91 

Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer. 

November  25, 1861. — The  tree,  the  serpent,  and  the  stir  (poetry) 6 

January  7, 1862. — Propositions  for  a Confederate  States  Flag 17 

March  10, 1862. — The  Flag  of  secession  (poetry) 31 

October  1, 1862. — Flag  and  Seal 50 

March  4, 1863. — Flag  and  Seal : 56 

March  4, 1863. — Our  Flag  and  Seal 60 

March  12, 1863.— Flag  and  Seal 63 

April  24, 1863. — Flag  and  Seal 70 

April  25, 1863. — Flag  and  Seal 72 

May  15, 1863. — Hoisting  of  the  new  Flag  on  the  Capitol 80 

May  16, 1863. — The  Confederate  Seal 81 

August  17, 1863. — A reminiscence  of  the  raising  the  first  Confederate  Flag  over  the  Capitol  in 

Montgomery,  Ala.  (poetry).  1 84 

December  29, 1864. — Hymn  to  the  National  Flag  (poetry) 87 

Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner. 

December  13, 1861. — The  Flag  of  the  Confederacy 13 

February  11,  1862. — Our  National  Emblem 23 

February  13, 1862. — The  new  Flag  of  the  Confederacy 26 

February  22, 1862. — Our  Coat  of  Arms — The  Live  Oak 27 

February  22, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 28 

March  28,  1862. — The  Flag,  Seal,  and  coins  of  the  Confederacy 33 

March  29, 1862. — A National  Coat  of  Arms 34 

April  19, 1862. — The  new  .Flag 38 

April  21, 1862. — Flag  of  the  Confederate  States 40 

September  25,  1862. — The  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States 47 

October  1, 1862. — Seal  of  the  Confederate  States 51 

October  10, 1862. — Seal  for  the  Confederate  States 54 

April  17, 1863. — Seal  of  the  Confederate  States 64 

April  24, 1863. — Labors  of  the  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal 68 


index.  iii 


Editorials,  communications,  &c. — Continued. 

Page. 

Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner. — (Continued.) 

April  27, 18G3. — Flag  and  Seal 72 

April  28, 1863. — Confederate  Seal 73 

May  8, 1863. — Raising  of  the  Flag 78 

May  9, 1863. — The  new  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States 79 

May  14, 1863. — The  new  Flag 80 

May  15, 1863. — The  new  Confederate  Standard 80 

May  16, 1863.— The  Flag 81 

May  18, 1863. — Letter  of  Mr.  La  Barre  on  subject  of  engraving  the  Confederate  Seal 82 

February  6, 1865. — Display  of  the  new  Confederate  Flag 88 

Richmond  (Va.)  Sentinel. 

November  3, 1864. — To  the  world  below  and  my  God  above 86 

December  14, 1864. — Improvement  in  the  Flag 87 

Richmond  (Va.)  Whig. 

April  1, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 36 

April  12, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 36 

April  16,  1S62. — The  new  Flag 37 

April  19, 1862. — Confederate  Flag 38 

April  21, 1862. — The  new  Flag 42 

August  1, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 44 

August  28, 1862. — Letter  of  Mr.  Lewis  Cruger,  of  South  Carolina,  to  the  Committee  on  the  Confed- 
erate Flag 46 

October  S,  1S62. — The  Confederate  Seal 53 

October  14, 1862. — The  Confederate  Flag 54 

October  22,  1862. — “Pro  aris  et  focis  ” 55 

February  11, 1865. — Letter  of  Major  Rogers  advocating  his  design  for  a new  Confederate  Flag 88 

February  13, 1865. — On  subject  of  change  in  the  National  Flag 91 

Rogers,  Arthur  L. 

January  2, 1865. — Submits  draft  of  bill  and  design  for  a Confederate  Flag 88 

Savannah  (G-a.)  Daily  News. 

February  23, 1863. — Flag  presented  to  the  20th  Tennessee  Regiment 56 

Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News. 

April  23, 1863. — Confederate  Flag  and  Seal 67 

April  28,  1863. — The  new  Confederate  Flag 77 

May  4, 1863. — The  new  Flag 78 

May  19, 1863. — The  new  Confederate  Flag 82 

May  23, 1863.— Our  Flag  ; the  Flag  (R.) 83 

Southern  Illustrated  News. 

September  27,  1862. — Flags  and  trophies ; their  interest  and  significance 49 

March  12, 1863. — Our  Flag  and  Seal 61 

April  18, 1863. — “ Turkey  Foot  ” on  the  Flag  question 66 

May  6, 1863. — Report  of  the  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal 78 

Southern  Punch. 

February  20, 1864. — Our  beautiful  Flag 85 

Unknown  Newspaper. 

, — , 18 — . — The  Confederate  Flag 55 

Walton,  J.  B. 

January  30, 1872. — Claims  his  design  to  have  been  the  original  of  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag 95 


CONFEDERATE  FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. 


Washington,  D.  C.,  February  15,  1861. 
President  and  Members  Southern  Congress,  C.  S.  A. 

Gentlemen:  I have  the  honor  to  enclose  herein  a few  impressions  of  Seals  which 
have  been  done  by  me.  A few  of  them  have  even  been  done  by  me  for  another 
engraver.  You  will  no  doubt  find  that  they  are  done  well,  and  no  one  living  can  beat 
them  in  workmanship  and  taste.  You  will  also  see  that  my  name,  as  a good  artist,  is 
widely  spread  over  the  whole  country,  as  I have  engraved  Seals  for  every  State  in  the 
Union  before  it  was  dissolved.  These  Seals  are  all  engraved  on  steel,  and  are  used  by 
large  lever  presses.  I furnish  both  Seal  and  press.  If  you  will  honor  me  with  the 
order  of  a Seal,  or  more,  I should  be  highly  honored  with  the  job,  and  shall  make  you 
a present  with  one  for  your  patriotic  action  in  selecting  such  a statesman  as  the  Hon. 
A.  H.  Stephens  for  Vice  President  and  Hon.  Jeff.  Davis  for  our  President. 

You  will  therefore  cause  a copy  of  the  design  to  be  sent  to  me  by  express,  and  I 
shall  send  it  to  you  by  express  also. 

After  examination  of  the  enclosed,  I would  most  respectfully  ask  if  you  will 
excuse  the  liberty  and  return  the  same,  as  I have  taken  them  out  of  my  sample-book, 
which  you  will  notice  also. 

Hoping  to  hear  from  you  soon,  I subscribe,  gentlemen,  with  much  respect, 

Your  most  obedient  servant, 

J.  BAUMGARTEN. 


[From  the  Montgomery  (Ala.)  Advertiser,  March  5, 1861.] 

Yesterday  was  an  eventful  day  in  the  provincial  capital  of  the  Confederate  States 
of  America,  as  well  as  in  Washington.  At  3:30  p.  m.  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate 
States  of  America  was  flung  out  to  the  breeze  from  the  staff  of  the  Capitol;  and  as  its 
proud  folds  gradually  unclosed  it  seemed  to  wave  defiance  to  the  northern  wind  that 
came  rushing  down  from  the  Potomac  laden  with  threats  of  abolition  coercion.  A large 
concourse  of  spectators  had  assembled  on  Capitol  Hill.  Miss  L.  C.  Tyler,  one  of  the 
fair  daughters  of  the  Old  Dominion,  and  a granddaughter  of  the  venerable  ex-President 
of  the  United  States,  had  been  selected  to  perform  the  principal  part  upon  this  occa- 
sion. When  the  time  had  arrived  for  raising  the  Banner,  Miss  Tyler  elevated  the  Flag 


2 EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


to  the  summit  of  the  staff,  cannon  thundered  forth  a salute,  the  vast  assemblage  rent 
the  air  with  shouts  of  welcome,  and  the  people  of  the  South  had  for  the  first  time  a 
view  of  the  Southern  Flag.  Ere  there  was  time  to  take  one  hast}'  glance  at  the 
National  Ensign,  the  eyes  of  all  were  upturned  to  gaze  at  what  would  perhaps  at  any 
time  have  attracted  unusual  attention,  but  on  this  occasion  seemed  really  a providential 
omen.  Scarcely  had  the  first  report  from  the  salute  died  away  when  a large  and 
beautifully-defined  circle  of  blue  vapor  arose  slowly  over  the  assemblage  of  Southern 
spirits  there  assembled  to  vow  allegiance  to  the  Southern  Banner,  rested  for  many 
seconds  on  a level  with  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States,  then  gradually  ascended 
until  lost  in  the  gaze  of  the  multitude.  It  was  a most  beautiful  and  auspicious  omen  ; 
and  those  who  look  with  an  eye  of  faith  to  the  glorious  future  of  our  Confederacy 
could  not  but  believe  that  the  same  God  that  vouchsafed  to  the  Christian  Emperor  the 
cross  in  the  heavens  as  a promise  of  victory  had  this  day  given  to  a young  nation 
striving  for  liberty  a divine  augury  of  hope  and  national  durability. 


Richmond,  Va.,  August  27,  1861. 

General  G.  T.  Beauregard, 

Fairfax  Court  House,  Va. 

Dear  General:  I received  your  letter  concerning  the  Flag  yesterday,  and 
cordially  concur  in  all  that  you  say. 

Although  I was  chairman  of  the  ‘•‘Flag  Committee”  who  reported  the  present 
Flag,  it  was  not  my  individual  choice.  I urged  upon  the  committee  a Flag  of  this 
sort : 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  3 


The  above  is  better.  The  ground,  red;  the  cross,  blue  (edged  with  white); 
stars,  white.  This  was  my  favorite.  The  three  colors  of  red,  white,  and  blue  were 
preserved  in  it.  It  avoided  the  religious  objection  about  the  cross  (from  the  Jews  and 
many  Protestant  sects),  because  it  did  not  stand  out  so  conspicuously  as  if  the  cross 
had  been  placed  upright,  thus  : 


☆ 

☆ 

☆ 

☆ 

☆ 

Besides,  in  the  form  I proposed,  the  cross  was  more  heraldic  than  ecclesiastical, 
it  being  the  “saltier”  of  heraldry,  and  significant  of  strength  and  progress  (from  the 
Latin  salto,  to  leap).  The  stars  ought  always  to  be  white  or  argent,  because  they  are 
then  blazoned  “proper”  (or  natural  color).  Stars,  too,  show  better  on  an  azure  field 
than  any  other.  Blue  stars  on  a white  field  would  not  be  handsome  or  appropriate. 


4 EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


The  “ white  edge"’  (as  I term  it)  to  the  blue  is  partly  a necessity,  to  prevent  what 
is  called  “ false  blazonry,”  or  a solecism  in  heraldry,  viz  : blazoning  color  on  color  or 
metal  on  metal.  It  would  not  do  to  put  a blue  cross,  therefore,  on  a red  field.  Hence, 
the  white  being  metal,  argent  is  put  on  the  red,  and  the  blue  put  on  the  white.  The 
introduction  of  the  white  between  the  blue  and  red  adds,  also,  much  to  the 'brilliancy 
of  the  colors,  and  brings  them  out  in  strong  relief. 

But  I am  boring  you  with  my  pet  hobby  in  the  matter  of  the  Flag  ; I wish, 
sincerely,  Congress  would  change  the  present  one.  Your  reasons  are  conclusive  in 
my  mind  ; but  I fear  it  is  just  as  hard  now  as  it  was  at  Montgomery  to  tear  people 
away  entirely  from  the  desire  to  appropriate  some  reminiscence  of  the  “Old  Flag.” 
We  are  now  so  close  to  the  end  of  the  session  that,  even  if  we  could  command  votes, 
upon  a fair  hearing,  I greatly  fear  we  cannot  get  such  hearing.  Some  think  the 
Provisional  Congress  ought  to  leave  the  matter  to  the  permanent  one.  This  might 
then  be  but  a provisional  Flag.  Yet,  as  you  truly  say,  after  a few  more  victories, 
association  will  come  to  the  aid  of  the  present  one,  and  then  it  will  be  more  difficult 
than  ever  to  effect  a change. 

I fear  nothing  can  be  done,  but  I will  try.  I will,  so  soon  as  I can,  urge  the  matter 
of  the  badges.  The  President  is  too  sick  to  be  seen,  at  present,  by  any  one. 

Very  faithfully,  yours, 

WM.  PORCHER  MILES. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  October  23,  1861.] 

Proposed  change  of  the  Confederate  Flag. 

The  Natchez  (Miss.)  Courier  has  the  following  appropriate  suggestions  in  regard 
to  the  propriety  of  changing  the  Confederate  Flag : 

“ It  has  been  said  that  the  Confederate  Flag  is  to  be  changed.  Judge  Porter,  of 
Alabama,  one  of  the  best  men  in  the  South,  proposes  that  we  should  adopt,  in  lieu  of 
the  present  Flag,  which,  he  says,  ‘borrows  too  much  from  the  North,  and  is  associated 
with  stripes,’  the  beautiful  Flag  raised  by  that  lover  of  freedom,  Kosciusko,  in  his 
native  Poland,  after  his  return  from  fighting  for  freedom  with  Washington.  It  is  a 
plain,  blue  field,  with  the  white  eagle.  There  is  no  other  Flag  like  it  now  in  use. 
Russia  extinguished  that  splendid  blue  Flag,  and  it  would  be  very  appropriate  for  the 
South.  It  would  be  easily  distinguished.  The  only  difficulty  we  can  see  in  the  way  of 
adopting  such  a Flag  is  that  it  could  not  be  easily  made  where  there  were  no  artists  to 
paint  on  the  Flag  the  white  eagle.  If  the  lone  star  in  the  centre  were  substituted  for 
the  eagle,  it  would,  in  our  opinion,  be  more  acceptable.” 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  5 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  October  24, 1861.] 
The  Flag-  of  Secession. 

Air — “ The  Star  Spangled  Banner .” 

0,  say,  can’t  you  see,  by  the  dawn’s  early  light, 

What  you  yesterday  held  to  be  vaunting  and  dreaming? 
The  Northern  men  routed,  Abe  Lincoln  in  flight, 

And  the  Palmetto  Flag  over  the  Capitol  streaming. 

The  pumpkins  for  fare, 

And  the  foul,  fetid  air, 

Gave  proof  through  the  night  that  the  Yankees  were  there. 
Now,  the  Flag  of  Secession  in  triumph  doth  wave 
O’er  the  land  of  the  free  and  the  home  of  the  brave. 

’Midst  the  dust  that  is  raised  by  the  fugitive’s  feet, 

His  acts  of  coercion  now  bitterly  ruing, 

See  the  rail-splitter  running  in  panting  retreat, 

And  gallant  Virginia  in  laughter  pursuing ; 

Now  he  catches  a beam 
Of  the  bayonet’s  fierce  gleam, 

And  he  hurries  away  with  a jump  and  a scream ; 

And  the  Flag  of  Secession  in  triumph  doth  wave 
O’er  the  land  of  the  freed  and  the  home  of  the  brave. 

But  where  is  the  despot  who  came  to  our  soil, 

In  the  garb  of  the  soldier  his  minions  disguising, 

And  shewed  them  our  fields  and  our  homes  as  their  spoils  ? 
We  only  can  say  that  his  speed  is  surprising. 

O’er  the  fences  he  made, 

When  that  was  his  trade, 

He  has  left  in  his  fears  from  our  vision  to  fade  ; 

And  the  Flag  of  Secession  in  triumph  shall  wave 
O’er  the  land  of  the  freed  and  the  home  of  the  brave. 

Oh  ! such  is  the  welcome  the  Southron  bestows 
On  the  despot  who  strives  to  make  slaves  of  a nation ; 

We  have  a hand  for  our  friends,  but  the  sword  for  our  foes, 
And  the  charge  of  our  soldiers  in  fierce  exultation. 

Then  again  to  the  fight, 

And  God  for  the  right ! 

The  Northmen  shall  shrink  from  our  warriors’  might; 

And  the  Flag  of  Secession  in  triumph  doth  wave 
O’er  the  land  of  the  freed  and  the  home  of  the  brave. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  November  14, 1861.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

We  cordially  sympathize  with  the  desire,  so  generally  expressed,  that  the  present 
Flag  shall  not  remain  the  permanent  Ensign  of  the  Confederacy.  It  looks  altogether 
too  much  like  the  old  concern  for  the  emblem  of  a separate  and  independent  nation. 
Whilst  we  are  emerging  from  the  chrysalis,  the  present  Flag  may  appropriately  repre- 
sent a transition  state,  but,  when  we  have  attained  our  unquestioned  place  among  the 
nations,  let  us  have  a Flag  as  different  from  the  United  States  Flag  as  it  is  possible  for 
the  wit  of  man  to  devise.  We  want  nothing  in  our  insignia  any  more  than  in  our  princi- 
ples or  sentiments  to  remind  us  of  the  hypocritical  despotism  which  we  have  thrown  off. 


6 EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Enquirer,  November  25, 1861.] 

The  Tree,  the  Serpent,  and  the  Star. 

A SONG  FOR  OUR  FLAG. 

From  the  silver  sands  of  a gleaming  shore, 

Where  the  wild  sea-waves  were  breaking, 

A lofty  shoot  from  a twining  root 
Sprang  forth  as  the  dawn  was  waking, 

And  the  crest,  though  fed  by  the  sultry  beam, 

And  the  shaft  by  the  salt  wave  only, 

Spread  green  to  the  breeze  of  the  curling  seas, 

And  rose  like  a column  lonely. 

All  hail  to  the  Tree — the  Palmetto  Tree — 

Green  badge  of  the  loyal,  the  brave,  and  the  free. 

As  the  sea-winds  rustled  the  bladed  crest, 

And  the  sun  to  the  noon  rose  higher, 

A serpent  came,  with  an  eye  of  flame, 

And  coiled  by  the  leafy  pyre. 

His  ward  he  would  keep  by  the  lonely  tree, 

To  guard  it  with  constant  devotion ; 

0 ! sharp  was  the  fang  and  the  armed  clang 
That  pierced  through  the  roar  of  the  ocean, 

And  guarded  the  Tree — the  Palmetto  Tree — 

Green  badge  of  the  loyal,  the  brave,  and  the  free. 

And  the  day  wore  down  to  the  twilight  close, 

The  breeze  died  away  from  the  billow; 

Yet  the  wakeful  clang  of  the  rattles  rang 
Anon  from  the  serpent’s  pillow, 

When  I saw  through  the  night  a gleaming  star 
O’er  the  branching  summit  growing, 

Till  the  foliage  green  and  the  serpent’s  sheen 
In  the  golden  light  were  glowing, 

That  hung  o’er  the  Tree — the  Palmetto  Tree — 

Green  badge  of  the  loyal,  the  brave,  and  the  free. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  December  7, 1861.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

The  adoption  of  our  present  Flag  was  a natural  but  most  pernicious  blunder.  As 
the  old  Flag  itself  was  not  the  author  of  our  wrongs,  we  tore  off  a piece  of  the  dear 
old  rag  and  set  it  up  as  a standard.  We  took  it  for  granted  a Flag  was  a divisible  thing, 
and  proceeded  to  set  off  our  proportion.  So  we  took,  at  a rough  calculation,  our  share 
of  the  stars  and  our  fraction  of  the  stripes,  and  put  them  together  and  called  them  the 
Confederate  Flag.  Even  as  Aaron  of  old  put  the  gold  into  the  fire  and  then  came  out 
“this  calf,,?  so  certain  stars  and  stripes  went  into  committee  and  then  came  out  “this 
Flag.  ’ All  this  was  honest  and  fair  to  a fault.  We  were  clearly  entitled  to  from  seven 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  7 

to  eleven  of  the  stars,  and  to  three  or  four  of  the  stripes.  Indeed,  as  we  were  main- 
taining the  principles  it  was  intended  to  represent,  and  the  North  had  abandoned  them, 
we  were  honestly  entitled  to  the  whole  Flag.  Had  we  kept  it,  and  fought  for  it  and  under 
it,  and  conquered  it  from  the  North,  it  would  have  been  no  robbery,  but  all  right  and 
fair.  And  we  should  either  have  done  this,  i.  e.,  kept  the  Flag  as  a whole,  or  else  we 
should  have  abandoned  it  as  a whole,  and  adopted  another ; but  if  we  did  not  choose 
to  assert  our  title  to  the  whole,  was  it  politic  and  judicious  to  split  the  Flag  and  claim 
one  of  the  fractions?  We  had  an  equal  right  also  to  “Hail  Columbia”  and  “ Yankee 
Doodle.”  We  might  have  adopted  a part  of  “Yankee  Doodle”  (say  every  third 
stanza),  or  else  “Yankee  Doodle,”  with  variations,  as  our  national  air.  In  the  choice 
of  an  air  we  were  not  guilty  of  this  absurdity;  but  we  have  perpetrated  one  exactly 
parallel  to  it  in  the  choice  of  a National  Flag.  There  is  no  exaggeration  in  the  illustra- 
tion ; it  seems  supremely  ridiculous,  yet  it  scarcely  does  our  folly  justice. 

There  is  but  one  feature  essential  to  a Flag,  and  that  is  distinctness.  Beauty, 
appropriateness,  good  taste,  are  all  desirable,  but  the  only  thing  indispensable  is  dis- 
tinctness— wide,  plain,  unmistakable  distinction  from  other  Flags.  Unfortunately,  this 
indispensable  thing  is  just  the  thing  which  the  Confederate  Flag  lacks ; and  failing  in 
this,  it  is  a lamentable  and  total  failure,  absolute  and  irredeemable.  The  failure  is  in 
a matter  of  essence.  It  is  as  complete  as  that  of  writing  which  cannot  be  read,  of  a 
gun  which  cannot  be  shot,  of  a coat  which  cannot  be  worn.  It  is  the  play  of  “Hamlet” 
with  the  part  of  Hamlet  left  out.  A Flag  which  does  not  distinguish  may  be  a very 
nice  piece  of  bunting;  it  may  be  handsomely  executed,  tasteful,  expressive,  and  a thou- 
sand other  things,  but  it  has  no  title  at  all  to  bear  the  name  of  Flag. 

We  knew  the  Flag  we  had  to  fight,  yet,  instead  of  getting  as  far  from  it,  we  were 
guilty  of  the  huge  mistake  of  getting  as  near  to  it  as  possible.  We  sought  similarity. 
Adopting  a principle  diametrically  wrong,  we  made  a Flag  as  nearly  like  theirs  as  could, 
under  favorable  circumstances,  be  distinguished  from  it.  Under  unfavorable  circum- 
stances (such  as  constantly  occur  in  practice),  the  two  Flags  are  indistinguishable.  In 
the  wars  of  the  Roses  in  Great  Britain  one  side  adopted  the  white  and  the  other  the 
red  rose.  Suppose  that  one  side  had  adopted  milk  white  and  the  other  flesh  white,  or 
one  deep  pink  and  the  other  a lighter  shade  of  pink,  would  there  have  been  any  end 
to  the  confusion? 

When  a body  of  men  is  approaching  in  time  of  war.  it  is  rather  an  important  matter 
to  ascertain,  if  practicable,  whether  they  are  friends  or  foes.  Certainly  no  question  could 
well  be  more  radical  in  its  influence  upon  our  action,  plans,  and  movements.  To  solve 
this  important  question  is  the  object  of  a Flag.  When  they  get  near  us  there  may  be 
other  means  of  information  ; but  to  distinguish  friends  from  enemies  at  a distance  is 
the  specific  purpose  of  a Flag.  Human  ingenuity  is  great,  and  may  conceive  some 
other  small  purposes — presentations,  toasts,  speeches,  &c. — but  that  this  is  the  great 
end  of  a Flag  will  not  be  denied;  and  it  is  in  this  that  the  Confederate  Flag  fails. 

There  is  no  ease  in  history  in  which  broad  distinction  in  the  symbols  of  the  com- 
batants was  more  necessary  than  it  has  been  in  the  present  war.  Our  enemies  are  of 
the  same  race  with  ourselves,  of  the  same  color  and  even  shade  of  complexion;  they 
speak  the  same  language,  wear  like  clothing,  and  are  of  like  form  and  stature.  (The 
more  shame  that  they  should  make  war  upon  us!)  Our  general  appearance  being  the 


8 EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

same,  we  must  rely  solely  upon  symbols  for  distinction.  The  danger  of  mistake  is 
great  after  all  possible  precautions  have  been  taken.  Sufficient  attention  has  never 
been  paid  to  this  important  matter,  involving  life  or  death,  victory  or  defeat.  Our 
badges,  uniforms,  Flags,  should  be  perfectly  distinguishable  from  those  of  the  enemy. 
Our  first  and  distant  information  is  dependent  solely  on  the  Flag. 

To  argue  this  objection  further  would  be  a waste  of  words.  And  yet  this  one 
objection  is  vital  and  insuperable.  We  shall  nevertheless  add  some  other  considera- 
tions in  another  article  on  the  same  subject. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  December  7,  1861.] 

Stand  by  that  Flag. 

BY  J.  D.  P. 

Stand  by  that  Flag,  men  of  the  South, 

Of  noble,  patriot  sires ; 

Your  cause  is  just,  you’ll  safely  pass 
Through  Abolition  tires. 

Dim  not  a single  star  that  decks 
The  Southern  Flag  o’erhead, 

And  let  its  light  ne’er  cease  to  glare, 

But  wider  let  it  spread  ! 

The  white  bespeaks  a purity 
Which  Northern  despots  fear ; 

The  red,  the  blood  by  which  we’ll  gain 
Our  liberty,  so  dear. 

The  blue  shows  that  we  will  be  free — 

Free  as  the  far,  blue  sky ; 

The  stars,  that  glory  brings  for  us 
A bright  crown  from  on  high. 

Southrons,  there  comes  a wicked  foe 
Who’d  desolate  this  land 

Of  lovely  vales  and  mountains  high, 

The  work  of  a bounteous  Hand ; 

He  then  would  tear  those  colors  down 
Now  waving  o’er  the  free, 

And  say  to  men  o’ercome  by  arms  : 

“Down,  rebels — worship  me!” 

Men  of  the  South,  arise,  arise — 

Hurl  back  th’  invading  foe, 

The  sunny  land  must — aye — be  free 
Tho’  blood  of  thousands  flow  I 

Shall  we,  who  worship  only  God, 

To  a despot  bend  our  knee? 

No ! no ! men  of  the  South, "arise, 

And  swear  you  will  be  free. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  9 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  December  9, 1861.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

We  referred  in  our  last  to  the  peculiar  difficulties,  in  a war  between  people  of  the 
same  race,  of  distinguishing  friends  from  foes.  Numerous  and  melancholy  have  been 
the  instances  already  in  the  present  contest  of  friends  killed  by  friends.  These  are  the 
saddest  stories  of  all — sad  for  the  dead,  sad  for  the  living.  At  Manassas  a galling  fire 

was  poured  by  the Mississippi  into  the  8th  Georgia  regiment,  already  decimated 

by  the  enemy,  and  many  a gallant  fellow  bit  the  dust.  Sorely  did  the  former  lament 
their  mistake,  but  too  late  to  recall  life  or  heal  wounds.  These  sad  histories  must  have 
another  depressing  and  disastrous  influence.  If  soldiers  entertain  a shadow  of  doubt  as 
to  the  character  of  the  columns  before  them,  if  there  be  a remote  suspicion  that  they 
may  be  friends,  what  must  be  the  effect  upon  their  fighting?  They  cannot  half  fight; 
their  hands  are  tied,  their  nerves  unstrung,  by  the  cruel  uncertainty.  Tears  of  blood 
would  not  suffice  could  some  of  the  harrowing  incidents  be  here  detailed  occasioned 
by  such  mistakes. 

Numerous  well-authenticated  instances  have  occurred  of  mistakes  as  to  the  Flags, 
growing  entirely  out  of  their  close  resemblance  to  each  other.  We  intended  to  refer 
to  some  of  these,  at  Charleston,  in  Western  Virginia;  to  the  case  of  the  Minnesota 
regiment  which  escaped  capture  by  this  means  ; to  the  capture  of  Colonel  Boone  ; but 
the  single  instance  referred  to  by  General  Beauregard  himself,  in  a late  speech,  is 
evidence  enough  and  to  spare.  In  the  decisive  battle  of  the  campaign  (at  Manassas)  a 
body  of  troops  were  seen  approaching  from  the  rear  of  our  left  wing.  Were  they 
friends  or  enemies?  The  fate  of  a battle,  almost  of  the  country,  depended  upon  the 
decision  of  this  question.  Although  but  a little  over  a mile  off,  the  Flag  of  our  rapidly- 
approaching  friends  could  not  be  distinguished  from  that  of  our  foes,  even  by  the  aid 
of  powerful  glasses.  Victory  trembled  in  the  balance.  How  awful  the  pause  of 
uncertainty  ! It  might  have  cost  the  battle.  This  single  fact,  and  it  is  but  one  of  many, 
is  enough  to  excite  one  universal  outcry  against  the  delusive  Flag.  We  have  copied 
from  that  of  our  enemies.  We  have  conquered  in  spite  of  it. 

No  wonder  that  loads  of  these  Flags  were  sent  to  Richmond  by  General  Joseph  E. 
Johnston  to  be  altered.  But,  in  the  name  of  wisdom,  of  patriotism,  of  common  sense, 
let  us  have  a Flag  that  will  do  to  fight  under  without  patching.  This  is  certainly  a 
reasonable  demand.  Some  even  talk  of  a peace  Flag  and  a war  Flag.  One  Flag  is 
surely  enough,  and  the  present  is  unfit  for  either  peace  or  war.  It  is  so  close  to  the 
old  United  States  Flag  that  one  is  on  thorns  in  referring  to  it,  lest  he  be  suspected  of 
treason.  We  have  left  the  “ Stars  and  Stripes  ” to  our  enemies,  and  are  fighting  them 
as  the  standard  of  bloody  and  implacable  foes.  So  we  are  fain  to  talk  of  ours  as 
“ Stars  and  Bars. ” How  ridiculous  we  all  feel  this  to  be!  Shall  we  perpetuate  this 
nonsense — this  mere  make-shift? 

Its  unfitness  for  a war  Flag  is  manifest  and  acknowledged.  For  what,  then,  is  it 
fit?  In  the  nature  of  the  case,  it  can  never  excite  the  enthusiasm  or  devotion  of  the 
people.  Even  victory  has  not  endeared  it  to  them.  Our  forefathers,  wiser  than  we, 
when  they  commenced  to  fight  Great  Britain,  did  not  adopt  some  modification  of  the 
British  Flag.  They  did  not  try  to  fight  under  and  against  the  same  thing  at  the  same 
time.  All  the  glorious  achievements  of  our  arms  have  failed  to  endear  this  Flag  to  us. 


10  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

And  why?  There  is  a philosophy  in  it.  It  is  because  of  its  inseparable  connection 
with  the  despotism  against  which  we  are  struggling  a death  struggle.  It  has  a taint 
about  it  which  cannot  be  removed.  It  smells  of  tyranny — of  the  old  body  of  death. 
It  wants  the  virgin  freshness  of  a new  Flag.  It  is  not  the  old  Flag,  and  if  it  were,  the 
associations  of  the  old  have  become  polluted  and  corrupt.  But  we  repeat,  if  the  old 
Flag  is  what  we  want,  we  don’t  get  it.  They,  our  enemies,  have  the  old  Flag,  and  we 
a mere  copy.  And  just  here  it  may  be  well  to  remark  that  we  make  as  much  fuss  over 
this  Flag  as  if  it  were  the  revolutionary  Flag  of  our  ancestors.  But  no  battle  of  the 
Revolution  was  fought  under  it.  It  was  never  adopted  till  after  peace.  It  is  post 
revolutionary. 

It  is  high  time  to  repair  the  unfortunate  mistake.  We  have  endeavored  to  put  our 
new  wine  into  fragments  of  old  bottles.  The  bottles  have  burst,  and  the  wine  has  been 
spilled.  We  have  gained  glorious  victories,  and  the  Flag  is  no  richer  for  them.  It  can 
never  be  made  to  hold.  We  will  never  get  rid  of  the  taint  of  that  old  Flag.  It  is  like 
a marriage  ring  after  a divorce  for  infidelity.  When  we  hate  the  marriage,  we  hate  all 
its  mementos. 

There  is  and  can  be  no  enthusiasm  for  this  Flag,  and  this  is  the  sole  reason.  Had 
we  adopted  a new  one,  unbounded,  independent,  already  the  enthusiastic  loyalty  of 
the  people  to  it  would  have  known  no  bounds.  We  cannot  afford  to  spill  so  many 
victories  and  gain  no  love  to  the  Flag.  Can  we  not  design  a new  bottle,  without 
taint,  which  can  hold  the  loyalty  and  devotion  of  the  people  to  the  symbol  of  their 
country  ? 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  December  10, 1861.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

A FLAG  PROPOSED. 

The  two  articles  that  appeared  in  this  paper  on  Saturday  and  yesterday,  urging 
objections  to  the  Confederate  Flag,  -were  from  the  pen  of  a citizen  of  Georgia,  a man 
who,  the  reader  must  have  at  once  seen,  was  possessed  of  very  superior  talents,  and 
who  is,  moreover,  a devout  patriot,  enjoying  the  high  esteem  of  his  neighbors.  We 
gave  his  contributions  the  position  and  prominence  of  editorials,  because  we  most 
heartily  approved  every  word  they  contained.  We  make  this  explanation  now  because 
we  are  about  to  publish  a description  of  a new  Flag  which  the  author  has  designed, 
and  we  wish  it  to  be  in  no  way  affected  by  individual  influence.  We  desire  that  it 
shall  be  considered  upon  its  independent  merits,  neither  prejudiced  nor  favored  by 
personal  considerations.  For  ourselves,  after  reading  the  glowing  argument  of  our 
correspondent,  we  are  ready  to  say,  without  hesitation,  that,  if  there  be  no  artistic 
difficulty  in  the  way,  we  are  willing  to  live  and  die  under  the  “Flag  of  the  Sun.” 

W e heartily  commend  the  closing  article  of  the  series  on  the  Confederate  Flag  to 
the  public. 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

It  is  impossible,  by  mere  description,  to  give  a correct  idea  of  a Flag.  There 
must  be  a model,  or  at  least  a delineation,  to  make  the  idea  at  all  complete  and 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  11 

adequate.  The  description  we  shall  give  of  the  proposed  Flag  is  only  such  as  to  enable 
the  reader  to  prepare  a model  or  design  of  it.  We  are  not  word  painter  enough  to 
make  the  Flag  stand  out  before  the  eyes — visible  by  mere  force  of  language. 

The  discussion  of  the  objections  to  the  present  Flag  has,  we  hope,  elucidated  the 
principles  for  the  selection  of  another — showing,  at  least,  what  a Flag  ought  not  to  be, 
if  not  what  it  should  be.  Distinctness,  appropriateness,  beauty,  are  to  be  consulted  in 
their  due  order. 

Before  presenting  his  own  favorite  suggestion,  the  writer  would  refer  briefly  to  the 
proposed  “ Southern  Cross.V  This  does  not  seem  to  him  to  be,  by  any  means,  a nail  in 
a sure  place.  Aside  from  the  objections  of  those  who  regard  with  suspicion  any  symbol 
of  connection  of  Church  or  State,  or  who  consider  this  the  symbol  of  a particular  relig- 
ious denomination,  there  are  graver  difficulties.  The  seeming  appropriateness  of  the 
Cross  is  all  confined  to  the  name.  The  Southern  Cross  itself  has  no  appropriateness 
north  of  the  equator.  Who  ever  saw  it?  Not  the  writer,  certainly.  Probably  not  one 
of  his  readers.  Not  one  in  ten  thousand  of  our  people  ever  saw  it.  Perhaps  a large 
majority,  including  all  the  uneducated,  never  heard  of  it.  In  South  America,  or  Africa, 
it  would  be  appropriate  enough.  It  might  do  for  Brazil.  But  we  know  much  more 
here  of  the  constellation  of  the  Great  Bear,  near  the  North  pole,  than  of  the  Southern 
Cross,  near  the  South  pole.  So  far  from  having  any  hold  upon  the  national  heart,  it  is 
not  even  known  by  sight,  or  name,  to  the  mass  of  the  people.  No  solitary  endearing 
association,  no  lodgment  in  the  affections  or  regard  of  the  people,  furnishes  any  founda- 
tion on  which  to  build  the  loyalty  and  attachment  of  the  country.  In  general  appear- 
ance it  is,  perhaps,  not  sufficiently  distinct  from  the  Flag  of  Great  Britain — the  nation 
with  which,  next  to  the  United  States,  we  are  most  likely  to  be  confounded.  But  were 
it  entirely  distinct,  it  is  sufficient  to  say  that  any  other  Flag,  adopted  at  random,  would 
be  equally  appropriate  with  the  Southern  Cross,  which  has  no  solitary  association  in  the 
history  of  our  people,  nor  root  nor  fibre  in  their  hearts. 

Our  criticisms  have  perhaps  ere  this  set  our  readers  upon  edge,  and  prepared  them 
to  receive,  in  a very  critical  spirit,  our  own  suggestion,  and  to  reject  it  at  the  first  blush. 
But  we  have  faith  in  it,  if  considered  with  candor;  and  its  obvious  appropriateness, 
we  are  sure,  will  grow  with  reflection.  The  hypocritical  may  hesitate  and  weigh,  but 
the  heart  of  the  people  will  respond  to  it — the  universal  heart,  cultivated  and  unculti- 
vated alike — for  it  is  a big  and  broad  sympathy  to  which  it  appeals.  The  Flag  we 
propose  would  consist  of  three  belts  and  two  triangular  spaces:  First,  a broad,  blue 
belt,  passing  diagonally  from  the  lower  corner  of  the  Flag,  next  the  staff,  to  the  upper 
corner  farthest  from  the  staff.  On  each  side  of  the  blue  belt  a narrower  belt  of  white. 
The  remaining  triangular  spaces  red,  viz:  The  corner  next  the  staff  above,  and  the 
corner  most  remote  from  it  below.  The  disposition  of  the  tri-colored  belts  is  both 
unique  and  beautiful.  In  the  centre  of  the  broad,  blue  belt  (which  represents  the 
zodiac,  or  track  of  the  sun  in  the  heavens)  we  would  represent  the  sun  in  his  ascending 
pathway.  This  is  the  appropriate  symbol  of  our  country.  We  dwell  in  the  land  of  the 
sun.  No  other  natural  feature  is  so  prominent.  The  sun  is  dear  to  us  at  home  and 
abroad.  At  home  we  enjoy  and  rejoice  in  it;  abroad,  in  more  inhospitable  climes,  we 
pine  and  long  for  it.  The  name  by  which  we  most  love  to  call  our  country  is  the 
“Sunny  South.”  It  is  the  predominence  of  sunshine  here  which  forms  the  most 


/ 


12  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

striking  feature  to  strangers  who  visit  us.  Let  us,  then,  not  in  arrogance,  as  the  symbol 
of  affected  superiority  over  others,  nor  as  the  token  of  any  political  creed  or  institution, 
but  in  grateful  acknowledgment  and  appreciation  of  this  prime  blessing  of  Providence, 
adopt  the  “Flag  of  the  Sun”  as  the  symbol  of  our  land — as  that  which  at  home  and 
abroad  recalls  its  dearest  features,  makes  us  love  and  cherish  it,  willing  to  foster, 
defend,  and,  if  need  be,  fight  for  it. 

The  mind  may  dwell  long  upon  it  before  finding  another  symbol  so  characteristic. 
We  are  not  afraid  to  challenge  reflection.  Indeed,  the  appropriateness  is  obvious  and 
recognized  by  all.  But  there  are  deeper  reasons  which  may  bear  investigation.  Adopt 
this  Flag  and  you  have  a broad,  natural  foundation  for  the  loyalty  of  the  people ; they 
will  love  it  instinctively  and  at  once.  The  difference  between  their  attachment  to  it  and 
to  one  less  appropriate  will  be  like  that  of  a parent  to  an  adopted  child  and  to  his  own. 
The  former  is  the  result  of  time  and  habit,  the  latter  of  nature  and  instinct  first,  and 
then  of  time  and  intercourse.  Wherever  our  people  see  it,  the  sight  will  revive  the 
dearest  associations  of  their  native  land.  Amid  the  fogs  of  old  England,  how  would 
the  sight  of  it  stir  up  deep  memories  and  longings  for  the  sunny  land  of  home?  It  is 
our  peculiar  happiness  that  an  object  so  grand  and  beautiful  should  likewise  be  appro- 
priate. It  is  the  emblem  of  all  we  would  have  our  country  to  be — of  light,  of  warmth, 
of  beneficence,  of  cheerfulness,  of  glory. 

It  will  be  observed  that  distinctness  is  attained  in  an  unusual  degree.  The  most 
conspicuous  portion  of  a Flag  is  the  upper  corner,  near  the  staff.  This  is  best  sup- 
ported, and  never  concealed  behind  other  portions  or  folds  of  the  Flag.  This  portion 
is  filled  with  red,  the  most  conspicuous  of  colors.  The  only  distinctions  possible  are 
those  of  shape  and  color.  The  proposed  Flag  differs  widely  from  the  United  States 
Flag  in  both.  A triangle  of  red  in  the  one  occupies  the  space  filled  in  the  other  by  a 
square  of  blue.  The  diagonal  belts  are  peculiar  also  to  this  Flag,  representing  the 
varied  bands  of  light  often  seen  across  the  heavens.  The  general  effect  of  the  Flag 
must  be  seen  to  be  appreciated.  It  is  fine — indeed,  we  think,  imposing. 

To  this  Flag  one  or  two  objections  may  be  urged,  already  hinted  at.  One,  that  it 
might  be  interpreted  into  an  assumed  superiority  over  other  nations.  The  other,  that 
it  does  not  symbolize  our  political  institutions.  For  neither  purpose,  however,  is  it 
intended.  We  simply  adopt  a grand,  natural  feature  of  our  country  as  an  appropriate 
emblem.  If  the  party  objecting  to  this  should  chance  to  be  the  North,  we  might 
toward  them  afford  to  indulge  a little  sauciness.  They  are  of  the  night,  we  of  the  day. 
It  is  fit  that  the  stars  should  disappear  when  the  sun  rises.  The  sunshine  of  freedom 
dispels  darkness  and  its  emblems. 

As  to  political  institutions,  it  is  not  important  or  usual  that  a Flag  should  symbolize 
a form  of  government.  The  Thistle  of  Scotland,  the  Irish  Shamrock,  the  British 
and  French  Flags,  have  no  political  significance.  The  Flag  of  the  United  States  once 
represented  States,  separate  and  sovereign,  but  that  principle  has  been  repudiated  by 
them  and  has  lost  all  its  appropriateness.  There  is  no  reason  why  the  North  should 
now  love  its  Flag.  The  old  motto,  UE  Pluribus  TJnum ,”  they  have,  in  fact,  if  not  in 
form,  rejected.  It  is  all  “ unum ” now,  without  any  “ pluribus."  Their  deified  ape 
has  abolished  the  “ pluribus ,”  converting  States  into  mere  counties,  and  making  the 
Flag  a stupid  solecism.  In  it  they  perpetuate  the  evidence  of  their  own  treason  to  the 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  13 

Constitution  and  the  original  principles  on  which  the  Government  was  founded.  It  is 
a living  rebuke  to  the  traitors  who  kept  the  symbol  and  have  abolished  the  reality. 
They  proclaim  it  no  longer  a galaxy  of  stars;  but  the  stars  fade  into  a pale,  nebulous 
group.  The  glory  has  departed. 

Let  us  not  symbolize  our  form  of  government,  but  our  land  itself,  by  adopting  its 
grand  natural  characteristic  as  the  emblem  of  our  nationality.  The  sun  in  a peculiar 
sense  is  ours : let  us  claim  our  heritage,  and  gladden  in  all  lands  the  heart  of  every  son 
of  the  South  who  sees  his  nation’s  Flag.  It  will  speak  for  itself  to  his  heart,  and 
every  association  will  hallow  the  original  impression.  No  broader  foundation  could  be 
laid  for  a nation’s  love  and  loyalty.  How  would  the  heart  of  the  people  have  been 
knit  to  it  already  had  it  been  adopted  at  the  beginning  of  our  brief  but  already 
glorious  history?  But  it  is  not  too  late.  Let  us  have  this  new  bottle,  sound  and  free 
from  taint,  for  the  new  wine  still  being  pressed  from  us,  the  blood  of  the  brave  spilled 
in  its  defense.  It  is  noble  in  itself— noble  in  its  suggestions,  a fit  symbol  in  prosperity, 
a cheering  one  in  adversity,  fit  for  peace,  fit  for  war — a Flag  to  live  under,  to  fight 
under,  to  conquer  under,  to  die  under.  The  dying  soldier,  lifting  his  last  expiring 
glance  to  the  rising  sun  on  its  folds,  would  find  the  symbol  of  hope  to  his  country  in 
the  “Flag  of  the  Sun.” 

[See  Plate  I.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  December  13, 1861.] 

The  Flag  of  the  Confederacy  does  not  please  a large  portion  of  the  Southern 
people.  That  which  was  thought  its  chief  recommendation  appears  to  be  its  scarlet 
sin.  It  is  and  was  intended  to  be  nothing  more  than  a happy  modification  of  the 
former  standard  of  the  country.  The  inventors  of  it  supposed  that  the  quantity  of 
balderdash  that  has  been  spoken  and  written  for  seventy  years  about  the  Stars  and 
Stripes  had  so  much  effect  on  the  tastes  and  attachments  of  the  race  that  nothing  but 
an  alteration  of  the  well-known  symbols  would  give  satisfaction.  But  it  appears  that 
even  those  who  have  the  most  vivid  idea  of  the  extent  and  depth  of  the  revolution  have 
failed  to  comprehend  it,  or  to  realize  the  disposition  of  this  country  to  become  inde- 
pendent in  every  part  and  form  of  its  nationality.  There  is  now  but  little  room  for 
doubt  that  the  resemblance  of  the  Confederate  Flag  to  that  of  the  United  States  renders 
it  displeasing  in  the  eyes  of  more  than  three-fourths  of  our  population. 

But  an  objection,  if  not  graver,  yet  certainly  more  substantial,  has  been  alleged 
against  the  new  Flag.  It  is  this : The  resemblance  is  so  striking  and  essential  that  there 
is  great  difficulty  in  distinguishing  the  one  from  the  other  at  a distance  or  in  the  smoke 
and  dust  of  a battle.  Now,  the  very  aim  and  object  of  a standard  is  to  enable  men  and 
officers  to  know  their  own  columns  or  ships  from  those  of  the  enemy  on  these  identical 
occasions.  A Flag  which  cannot  render  that  service  is  worse  than  none  at  all,  for  it 
may  produce  the  most  disastrous  confusion  and  fatal  errors.  An  instance  of  the  fact 
nearly  occurred  at  the  famous  battle  of  Manassas  Plains. 


14  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

The  desire  for  a change  in  the  present  Banner  has  been  so  generally  manifested  that 
it  is  nearly  certain  that  it  will  be  made.  The  newspapers  are  filled  with  the  projects 
and  devices  for  a new  Emblem,  some  of  which  are  ingenious,  but  most  nearly  all  liable 
to  some  radical  objection.  One  of  our  cotemporaries  is  quite  earnest  in  advocating  a 
Standard  consisting  of  certain  diagonal  lines  of  red  and  blue,  running  from  one  corner 
to  the  other,  with  the  triangular  spaces  of  red  filling  the  other  two.  It  does  not  seem 
to  have  occurred  to  the  writer  that  he  had  invented  the  bar  sinister!  But  the  more 
common  thought  is  some  arrangement  of  the  crucifix,  of  stars  or  of  colors  ; though  at 
least  half  the  nations  of  Christendom  have  and  do  employ  that  emblem  in  some  form 
or  other  in  their  escutcheon  or  on  their  Flag.  If  we  change  the  present  Flag,  the 
alteration  must  be  final ; hence  we  should  ascertain  satisfactorily  what  things  we  want 
in  a Flag.  Three  things  are  demanded : First,  that  it  shall  be  unique,  so  that  it  may 
be  immediately  distinguished  from  all  others  ; second,  that  it  can  be  seen  at  a great 
distance;  third,  that  it  shall  be  handsome.  To  attain  the  first  object,  we  must  sur- 
render the  stars  of  every  kind,  and  also  give  up  red,  white,  and  blue — the  colors  of 
Imperial  France,  as  well  as  of  the  Lincoln  despotism.  To  have  the  latter  and  most 
desirable  quality,  the  colors  must  be  as  bright  and  as  few  as  possible.  A simple  white 
Flag,  for  instance,  is  seen  by  the  naked  eye  at  distances  in  which  the  figures  of  men 
and  horses  are  imperceptible  even  with  glasses.  For  the  third  desideratum,  no  rule  can 
be  laid  down  save  that  the  colors  should  be  sufficiently  broad  as  to  fall  in  large  masses. 

It  will  be  difficult  to  create  the  Standard  that  will  meet  these  exigencies  so  long  as 
we  insist  on  preserving  a tricolor ; and  we  are  unable  to  perceive  why  it  should  be 
retained  at  all.  The  ancient  Flag  of  France  was  one  of  the  most  beautiful  and  useful 
that  ever  existed.  It  was  pure  white,  with  three  Fleur-de-lis  of  gold  in  the  centre. 
No  smoke  or  fog  or  distance  could  obscure  or  confound  it;  its  beauty  and  effect  was 
uncontested.  As  it  is  no  longer  used  by  any  nation,  we  might  perhaps  take  a hint 
from  it,  and  find  that  for  simplicity,  elegance,  durability,  and  utility  we  could  have 
nothing  better  than  the  white  ground,  with  the  arms  or  emblem  of  the  country  (when- 
ever Congress  shall  find  a committee  of  sufficient  taste  and  knowledge  of  heraldry  to 
make  one)  emblazoned  in  gold  or  scarlet  on  the  union  or  in  the  centre. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  December  17, 1861.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

A correspondent  expresses  his  approval  of  the  idea  advocated  by  this  paper  of  the 
sun  as  the  emblem  of  the  Sunny  South,  but  would  discard  the  stripes  altogether.  He 
suggests  that  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy  be  a blue  ground,  with  a bright  sun  in  its 
centre.  [See  Plate  C,  Part  II.]  If  anything  is  needed  to  relieve  the  colors,  tip  the 
four  corners  with  white.  He  insists  that  something  should  be  done  immediately,  that 
no  other  brave  man’s  life  may  be  taken  by  his  friends,  and  recommends  that  white 
pennants  should  be  sent  to  all  the  standard-bearers  of  the  Army,  to  be  attached  above 
the  Flag,  and  a white  star  be  worn  near  the  left  shoulder,  or  some  other  distinguishing 
mark,  that  in  close  conflict  friend  may  not  be  taken  for  foe.  The  battle  Flag  already 
in  use  on  the  Potomac  renders  the  first  recommendation  unnecessary. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  15 

[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  December  27,  1861.] 

The  Flag. 

A Virginia  lady  correspondent  encloses  us  a design  of  a Flag  which  embodies  our 
Georgia  correspondent's  idea  of  the  sun,  but  discards  other  features  as  being  too  much 
like  the  old  one.  In  this  new  design,  which  strikes  us  very  favorably,  the  field  is  to  be 
rose-color,  with  a sun  rising  along  a line  of  blue  hills.  The  writer  says: 

“ Let  the  body  of  the  sun  have  as  many  points  as  there  are  States  in  the  Confed- 
eracy. This  will  be  peculiarly  appropriate,  because  our  States,  like  the  sun,  give 
instead  of  receiving.  If  a motto  be  desired,  let  a white  scroll  stretch  across  between 
the  hills  and  the  sun.  In  grateful  acknowledgment  of  our  bright  skies  and  fair  land,  I 
thought  of  Dens  dat  ( ‘ God  giveth  ’ ).  Remembering  how  signally  he  had  strengthened 
us  against  our  enemies,  Deus  vim  dat  ( ‘ God  giveth  strength  : ) seemed  better.  I have 
made  the  remainder  of  the  Flag  a bright  green,  with  a scarlet  band- encircling  the  field 
and  around  the  border.  The  bright  sun,  blue  hills,  and  green  fields  which  so  strikingly 
mark  our  Southern  land  would  all  be  represented.’’ 

The  handsome  design  described  above  may  be  seen  in  the  window  of  the  Dispatch 
counting-room. 

[See  Plate  II.] 


[From  the  Bichmond.  (Va.)  Dispatch,  December  31, 1861.] 

Singular  State  Flag. 

The  Flag  of  the  Texas  camp  at  Camp  Wigfall,  near  Dumfries,  Va.,  is  made  of 
the  bridal  dress  of  Mrs.  Wigfall.  Says  the  correspondent  of  the  Austin  Gazette : 

“It  bears  the  emblem  of  the  ‘Lone  Star,’  and  this  is  of  pure  white  silk,  set  in 
blue  ground ; the  fold  is  purple  and  white.  The  hearts  of  all  are  riveted  to  it.  It 
never  will  be  given  up.  An  old,  war-worn  warrior  approached  it,  and,  as  his  eyes 
gazed  steadily  upon  the  Banner,  he  said : ‘ That  star  was  made  of  the  bridal  dress  of 
the  lady  of  our  gallant  Colonel ; she  worked  it  with  her  fair  hands  and  gave  it  to  us  to 
carry  through  the  battles  of  our  country.  How  could  we  fail  to  protect  it  with  our 
lives?  No,  sir:  I never  failed  to  meet  the  enemy  when  that  star  was  our  watch-word, 
and  now,  when  our  whole  South  is  in  danger,  I feel  that  my  poor  life  can  be  given  up 
easily  upon  that  Flag  as  my  shroud.’  The  old  fellow,  with  his  gray  hairs,  still  stands 
before  my  memory.  Such  is  the  feeling  of  every  Texan.” 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  December  31, 1861.] 

The  Battle  Flag. 

On  the  unfurling  of  the  battle  Flag  in  the  ranks  of  the  Second  Corps,  Army  of 
the  Potomac,  Major  General  G.  W.  Smith  issued  an  order,  in  which  he  says : 

“This  Flag,  already  hallowed  by  the  hands  that  made  it,  will,  when  victorious, 
be  made  the  Banner  of  your  country;  and  a nation’s  prayer  will  rise  for  your  success 
while  fighting  beneath  its  sacred  folds.  The  enemy,  whom  you  have  so  long  desired 


16  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

to  attack  on  the  north  bank  of  the  Potomac,  again  advances  with  an  invading  army. 
If  they  dare  come  here,  they  will  he  beaten  ; if  they  attempt  to  avoid  and  pass  you, 
their  fate  is  sealed.  Be  prepared  to  act  in  either  emergency.  Their  leaders  are 
determined  to  destroy  our  Government  and  compel  our  people  to  submit  to  theirs. 
Remember,  that  the  only  alternative  for  your  country  is  victory  or  abject  submission 
to  Northern  despotism.” 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  January  2, 18G2.] 
The  Confederate  Flag. 

Editors  Dispatch  : The  following  is  proposed  : 


Description. — The  Flag  is  divided  into  three  parts,  the  first  and  third  equal  in  size, 
the  middle  one-third  or  one-fourth  as  wide  as  either  of  the  others,  forming  a narrow 
strip  between  them.  The  first  part  next  the  staff  is  blue,  with  a broad,  curving  belt 
running  diagonally  from  the  lowest  corner  near  the  staff  to  the  corresponding  opposite 
corner  of  the  top.  This  belt  is  formed  by  lines  or  strips  of  white.  It  represents  the 
zodiac  or  path  of  the  sun  through  the  heavens.  In  the  centre  is  placed  a large  figure 
of  the  sun,  formed  of  white.  In  the  corner  spaces,  above  and  below  the  belt,  are 
white  stars  equal  to  the  number  of  the  Confederate  States.  The  middle  portion  of  the 
Flag  is  a perpendicular  belt  of  white.  The  part  on  the  right  is  red. 

Explanation. — -The  blue  is  the  color  of  the  sky  ; the  stars  represent  the  States, 
while  the  sun  is  the  symbol,  not  of  any  particular  idea,  but  of  beneficent  influences  in 
general — light,  heat,  life,  quickening  energy,  fertility,  purity,  love,  joy,  elevation,  glory, 
the  fervid  rays  of  the  natural  sun  darting  on  our  Southern  land  the  favor  of  Deity, 
Christianity,  the  National  Constitutional  Government  dispensing  its  blessings  to  all 
the  States,  and  forming  the  centre  and  bond  of  unity  between  them,  as  the  sun  holds 
together,  illuminates,  warms,  and  cheers  the  solar  system.  The  other  parts,  white  and 
red,  are  designed  simply  to  give  variety  of  color,  distinctness,  aud  effect  to  the  Flag. 
The  whole,  in  the  writer’s  estimation,  would  constitute  a beautiful  and  striking  Banner, 
eminently  appropriate  as  the  Ensign  of  our  Southern  Nation.  Although  the  stars  are 
retained,  yet,  as  the  sun  is  the  central  and  most  conspicuous  figure  upon  it,  it  may 
properly  be  denominated  ‘‘The  Flag  of  the  Sun.”  It  is  true  that  when  the  sun  shines 
the  stars  are  invisible,  but  still  they  are  in  the  heavens,  and  the  track  of  the  sun  is 
among  them.  Hence,  as  emblems  of  the  States,  considered  individually  and  numeri- 
cally, they  are  placed  upon  the  Flag. 


[See  Plate  III.] 


J.  H.  M. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  January  4, 1862.] 

Richmond  News  and  fiossip. 

Quite  a number  of  new-fangled  Flags  are  exhibited  in  the  window  of  the  Dispatch 
office.  The  latest  picture,  which  is  gotten  up  with  great  care  and  neatness,  represents 
a tricolor  — three  bars  of  equal  width,  running  horizontally,  the  lower  black,  the 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  17 

middle  purple,  the  upper  white,  with  stars  in  it.  The  black  bar  is  designed  to  notify 
mankind  that  the  Confederacy  “ sprung  from  Black  Republicanism.”  [See  Plate  IV.] 
Ha  ! How  would  a buzzard  sitting  on  a cotton-bale,  with  a chew  of  tobacco  in  his 
mouth,  a little  nigger  in  one  claw,  and  a palmetto  tree  in  the  other,  answer?  Nothing 
could  be  more  thoroughly  and  comprehensively  Southern. 

* * * -x-  * 

HERMES. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  January  7, 1862.] 

Propositions  for  a Confederate  States  Flag. 

We  were  much  interested  in  a conversation  between  three  gentlemen,  at  a business 
office  in  this  city,  on  Sunday  evening  last.  We  sat  a silent  listener,  noting  in  our 
memory,  as  best  we  could,  some  of  the  principal  points  in  the  conversation,  and,  for 
the  benefit  of  the  Confederate  States  authorities,  we  give  it  publicity. 

To  give  the  above-mentioned  authorities  the  full  benefit  of  any  and  every  thing  by 
which  the  interests  of  the  Confederacy  may  be  enhanced,  we  give  the  stature,  propor- 
tions. and  idiosyncrasies  of  these  gentlemen  as  full  as  our  knowledge  of  the  phrenology, 
physiognomy,  and  physique  of  man  will  admit.  We  mention  first  Mr.  A.,  whom  we 
will  represent  as  being  a short,  thickset,  round,  full-faced,  rather  jolly,  good-natured 
gentleman,  with  a very  large,  round  head,  high  forehead,  “well  balanced”  (as  phre- 
nologists have  it)  ; nose  straight  and  thick,  lips  rather  thin  and  close  together,  chin  and 
neck  short,  and  eyes  denoting  mirth  and  cheerfulness.  Mr.  B.  we  will  represent, 
though  born  in  Virginia,  as  a regular  Yankee  in  appearance ; in  height  about  five  feet 
eight  inches,  very  spare  made,  shoulders  a little  drooped,  small  head,  sharp  forehead, 
long  Roman  nose,  thick  lips,  short,  sharp  chin,  hazel  eyes — and,  withal,  remarkably 
gaseous.  Mr.  C.  we  will  represent,  in  stature,  six  feet  one  and  a quarter  inches,  some- 
thing on  the  lath  order ; head  medium  size,  low,  corrugated  forehead  ; eyes  blue,  of 
good  size ; nose  very  long  and  broad  ; lips  thin  and  tightly  compressed ; chin  sharp 
and  pointed,  and  very  long,  wiry  neck. 

Having  thus  described  each  of  the  gentlemen  to  the  best  of  our  ability,  we  proceed 
to  give  the  conversation.  It  appears  that  Mr.  A.  had,  sometime  in  the  forenoon,  been 
drawing  the  Flag  of  the  British  Government,  which  was  left  on  a table  in  the  office, 
near  the  fire  round  which  the  party  (we  included)  were  seated.  Mr.  B.  scrutinized 
very  closely  the  drawing,  pronounced  it  “good,”  and  then  presented  a design  for  our 
new  National  Flag,  of  three  bars,  black,  red,  and  white,  with  stars  running  through  the 
white,  similar  to  a design  in  the  Dispatch  office.  Mr.  A.  didn’t  like  it.  He  thought 
black  should  never  constitute  a portion  of  our  Flag  ; if  it  contained  black,  he  preferred 
all  black,  so  the  enemy  might  know  what  kind  of  people  they  were  trying  to  subjugate. 
He  suggested  a blue  Flag  with  white  union,  or  blue  and  orange  with  white  union.  Mr. 
C.  suggested  blue,  red,  and  white  bars,  with  no  stars.  Mr.  B.  then  suggested  blue, 
red,  and  white  bars,  with  a “ nigger  ” at  each  end  of  the  white  ; or  a black  Flag,  with  a 
cotton-patch  at  each  end.  Mr.  A.  presented  no  serious  objection  to  the  “ nigger,”  but 
“ didn’t  like  to  be  tied  to  the  cotton-patch.”  He  could  stand  the  “nigger,”  and  thought 
it  rather  good,  but  would  prefer  to  either  the  colors  blue,  red,  and  white,  with  an  oyster 


18  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

“rampant”  in  centre  of  white.  Just  at  this  moment,  when  we  were  thinking 
some  design  would  be  determined  upon,  a fifth  party  came  in  and  proposed  an  adjourn- 
ment to  supper,  thus  stopping  the  conversation  for  the  time  being.  It  may  at  some 
future  day,  for  aught  we  know,  be  resumed  ; but  if  the  ideas  of  the  gentlemen  given 
above  be  of  any  use  to  any  concerned,  we  shall  congratulate  ourselves  at  having  been  a 
listener  to  the  conversation. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  January  7, 1862.] 

A Flag. 

A beautiful  design  for  a Confederate  Flag  has  been  placed  in  the  window  of  the 
Dispatch  counting-room  by  “A  Citizen.”  It  consists  of  black,  purple,  and  white  or 
silver  bars,  on  the  latt  er  of  which  (which  is  the  upper  bar)  are  stars  of  gold.  It  strikes 
us  as  being  very  rich  and  gorgeous,  as  well  as  simple  and  durable.  The  author  describes 
its  symbolical  character  in  this  manner : The  lowest  bar  represents  Black  Republican 
rule,  from  which  we  rise  through  blood  (the  middle  bar  of  purple)  to  light  and  freedom  ; 
the  upper,  white  or  silver,  in  which  our  States,  the  golden  stars,  reign  co-equal  in  light. 
With  the  exception  of  symbolizing  Black  Republicanism,  the  propriety  of  recognizing 
the  existence  of  which  on  our  Flag  in  any  shape  or  form  we  do  not  perceive,  we  think 
the  Flag  in  its  attractiveness  and  purposes  highly  beautiful. 

[See  Plate  IV.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  January  11,  1862.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

BY  CORA  LIVINGSTON  (BUCKLAND,  YA.). 

Great  Standard  of  Liberty  ! 

Long,  long  may  it  wave 

O’er  the  twelve  States  of  freedom 
We  are  fighting  to  save. 

Let  it  float  on  in  splendor, 

Our  conquest  is  near; 

While  God  watches  o’er  us, 

We  have  nothing  to  fear. 

Our  sister  State,  Maryland, 

Stands  waiting  our  call ; 

From  oppression  and  wrath 
We’ll  free  her  or  fall. 

The  Union  is  severed, 

The  contest  is  pending ; 

The  homes  of  the  sunny  South 
We’ll  die  in  defending. 

With  our  three  bars  of  glorjr 
And  blue  field  of  stars 

We  will  humble  the  traitors, 

Or  die  in  our  cause. 

This  great  Flag  of  victory 
Shall  float  far  and  wide, 

With  Johnston  and  Beauregard 
Standing  by  its  side. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  19 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  January  11, 1862.] 

The  Stars  and  Bars. 

Fling  wide  the  dauntless  Banner 
To  every  Southern  breeze, 

Baptized  in  flame,  with  Sumter’s  name — 

A patriot  and  a hero’s  fame — 

From  Moultrie  to  the  seas ! 

That  it  may  cleave  the  morning  sun, 

And,  streaming,  sweep  the  night, 

The  emblem  of  a battle  won 
With  Yankee  ships  in  sight. 

Come,  huckster's,  from  your  markets, 

Come,  bigots,  from  your  caves, 

Come,  venal  spies,  with  brazen  lies 
Bewildering  your  deluded  eyes, 

That  we  may  dig  your  graves ; 

Come,  creatures  of  a sordid  clown 
And  driveling  traitor’s  breath, 

A single  blast  shall  blow  you  down 
Upon  the  fields  of  Death. 

The  very  Flag  you  carry 
Caught  its  reflected  grace 
In  fierce  alarms,  from  Southern  arms, 

When  foemen  threatened  all  your  farms 
And  never  saw  your  face. 

IIo  ! braggarts  of  New  England’s  shore, 

Back  to  your  hills,  and  delve 
The  soil  whose  craven  sons  forswore 
The  Flag  in  eighteen  twelve! 

We  wreathed  around  the  roses 
It  wears  before  the  world, 

And  made  it  bright  with  storied  light 
In  every  scene  of  bloody  fight 
Where  it  has  been  unfurled  ; 

And  think  ye  now  the  dastard  hands 
That  never  yet  could  hold 
Its  staff  shall  wave  it  o’er  our  lands, 

To  glut  the  greed  of  gold? 

No ! by  the  truth  of  heaven, 

And  its  eternal  sun, 

By  every  sire  whose  altar-fire 
Burns  on  to  beckon  and  inspire, 

It  never  shall  be  done ; 

Before  that  day  the  kites  shall  wheel 
Hail-thick  on  Northern  heights, 

And  there  our  bared,  aggressive  steel 
Shall  countersign  our  rights ! 

Then  spread  the  flaming  Banner 
O’er  mountain,  lake,  and  plain  ; 

Before  its  bars  degraded  Mars 
Has  kissed  the  dust  with  all  his  stars, 

And  will  be  struck  again ; 

For  could  its  triumph  now  be  staid 
By  hell’s  prevailing  gates, 

A sceptered  Union  would  be  made 
The  grave  of  sovereign  States. 


20  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  January  17, 1862.] 

Richmond  News  and  Gossip. 

The  Dispatch  window’  is  filled  with  all  manner  of  attempted  improvements  on  the 
Confederate  Flag,  most  of  them  exceedingly  ugly.  The  best  yet  proposed  is  a cross, 
surrounded  by  stars,  on  a pure  white  field,  the  upright  red,  the  cross-piece  blue,  and 


the  space  where  the  two  pieces  cross  each  other  white. 

* * * 

* 

* 

[See  Plate  V.] 

HERMES. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  January  23, 1SG2.] 

Tiie  Confederate  Flair  and  the  Southern  Cross. 

Richmond,  Ya.,  January  20,  1862. 

Much  has  been  said,  and  not  a little  written,  upon  the  subject  of  the  new  Confed- 
erate Flag.  Many  designs  have  been  proposed,  some  of  which  have,  at  least,  the  merit 
of  originality.  That  the  present  Flag  should  be  abandoned,  we  think  nearly  every  one 
will  admit.  We  propose  as  a substitute  for  it  the  one  which  we  will  now  describe  : 

Dimensions. — The  length  to  be  double  the  width. 

Colors. — Divide  the  length  into  twenty-four  parts;  the  first  seven  parts  to  be 
scarlet;  the  next  five  parts  to  be  bright  grass-green  ; the  next  four  parts  to  be  white  ; 
and  the  remaining  eight  parts  to  be  a deep  sky-blue,  which  shall  be  the  field. 

The  Emblem. — A cross,  composed  of  clustering  stars  of  gold,  to  be  set  in  the  blue 
field.  It  may  be  constructed  as  follows : Place  five  stars,  one  above  the  other  and 
equidistant,  in  the  middle  of  the  field  and  parallel  with  the  staff ; divide  the  width  of 
the  field  into  thirty-two  parts,  and  arrange  the  stars  so  that  the  first  one  will  be  nine 
and  one-half  parts  from  its  centre  to  the  top  of  the  field,  and  the  fifth  one  the  same 
number  o’f  parts  from  its  centre  to  the  bottom  of  the  field.  Between  the  second  and 
third  star  from  the  top,  place  a star  each  side  of  a point  midway  between  them,  so  that 
the  four  stars  will  form  equilateral  triangles  ; then  add  two  stars  at  the  top,  two  at  the 
bottom,  and  two  at  each  side,  placing  them  so  as  to  form  equilateral  triangles,  the  sides 
of  the  angles  being  the  same  length  as  the  distance  (measured  from  centre  to  centre) 
which  separates  one  from  another  the  stars  first  arranged,  and  you  will  have  completed 
the  cross. 

It  will  be  observed  there  are  fifteen  stars  altogether,  which  represent  the  fifteen 
Southern  States.  The  two  stars  between  the  triangles  at  the  sides  to  be  in  eclipse,  as 
they  are  intended  to  represent  the  Southern  States  yet  remaining  in  the  old  Union. 

The  cross  has,  for  more  than  fifteen  centuries,  been  a military  emblem.  It  is  as 
beautiful  as  it  is  significant.  Up  to  the  time  of  Constantine,  it  was  used  by  the  Romans 
as  an  instrument  of  torture,  and  malefactors  suffered  death  upon  it ; but  this  terrible 
mode  of  punishment  was  abolished  by  him,  and  the  cross  was  elevated  to  a dignity  it 
had  never  known  before.  The  story  of  his  conversion  to  Christianity  is  well  known. 
Eusebius  gives  it  in  impressive  language.  It  was  during  his  war  with  Maxentius,  the 
Roman  emperor,  that  he  daily  supplicated  heaven  to  aid  him  in  overthrowing  his 
enemies.  A beneficent  Creator  heard  his  prayers.  The  sign  of  the  cross  appeared  in 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  21 


the  sky  above  the  declining  sun,  luminious  and  beautiful,  having  over  it  the  words : 
“ By  this  conquer.”  He  and  his  whole  artny  were  struck  with  wonder  and  amazement. 
Being  unable  to  interpret  its  significance,  Christ,  it  appears  from  the  historian,  came  to 
his  relief;  for  when  night  came  on.  and  he  had  retired  to  rest,  the  Saviour  appeared  to 
him  in  a vision,  holding  in  His  hand  the  cross  he  had  seen,  and  told  him  “ to  make  a 
standard  resembling  the  sign  which  he  had  seen  in  the  heavens,  and  to  use  it  as  a 
defense  in  the  battle  with  his  enemies.”  The  legions  of  Maxentius  were  overthrown 
by  the  Christian  warrior  on  the  plains  of  Etruria,  and  the  cross  floated  in  triumph 
beneath  the  bright  Italian  skies. 

The  cross  of  Saint  Louis,  a military  order  instituted  by  Louis  XIV,  is  well  known. 
The  cross  of  Saint  Andrew,  the  cross  of  Saint  George,  the  various  crosses  used  by  the 
different  orders  of  knights,  such  as  Knights  of  the  Red  Cross,  Knights  of  Malta  (who 
wore  a white  cross  on  their  breast,  suspended  by  a black  ribbon),  and  many  others  we 
could  name,  all  having  some  military  signification. 

Within  the  cross  we  have  described  there  is  almost  a perfect  representation  of 
“ The  Cross  of  the  South.”  This  constellation  has  some  eighteen  or  twenty  stars,  but 
only  four  principal  ones.  Around  some  of  these  are  clusters  of  minute  stars  just 
visible.  It  is  by  far  the  most  splendid  object  in  the  southern  heavens.  A traveler  in 
Brazil  writes:  “We  beheld  this  glorious  constellation  for  the  first  time  in  latitude 
14  deg.  7 min.  We  all  contemplated  it  with  feelings  of  profound  devotion.  To  the  navi- 
gator it  is  a token  of  peace.  According  to  its  position,  it  indicates  the  hours  of  the 
night.  We  had  long  wished  for  this  constellation  as  a guide  to  the  other  hemisphere. 
We  therefore  felt  inexpressible  pleasure  when  we  perceived  it  in  the  resplendent  firma- 
ment.” 

Humboldt  also  refers  to  his  first  view  of  this  constellation  with  peculiar  feeling. 
“We  saw  distinctly,”  says  the  great  traveler,  “for  the  first  time,  the  ‘ Cross  of  the 
South’  on  the  nights  of  the  4th  and  5th  of  July,  in  the  sixteenth  degree. of  latitude. 
It  was  strongly  inclined,  and  appeared  from  time  to  time  between  the  clouds,  the  centre 
of  which,  furrowed  by  uncondensed  lightning,  reflected  a silver  light.  The  pleasure 
felt  in  discovering  the  Southern  Cross  was  warmly  shared  by  such  of  the  crew  as  had 
lived  in  the  colonies.  In  the  solitude  of  the  seas,  we  hail  a star  as  a friend  from  whom 
we  have  been  long  separated.  * * * The  two  great  stars  which  mark  the  summit 

and  foot  of  the  cross  have  nearly  the  same  right  ascension  ; it  follows  that  the  constel- 
lation is  almost  perpendicular  at  the  moment  when  it  passes  the  meridian.  * * * 

It  is  known  at  what  hour  of  the  night,  in  different  seasons,  the  Southern  Cross  is  erect 
or  inclined.  It  is  a time-piece  that  advances  very  regularly,  nearly  four  minutes  a day. 
How  often  have  we  heard  our  guide  exclaim  in  the  savannas  of  Venezuela:  ‘ Midnight 
is  past ; the  Cross  begins  to  bend.’  ” 

We  think  the  cross  would  be  particularly  appropriate  as  an  emblem  for  the  Flag  of 
our  great  republic.  We  know  that  its  bright  stars  are  ever  twinkling  in  the  deep  blue 
vault  of  the  southern  sky ; and,  as  the  course  of  empire  with  us  is  toward  the  south,  it 
would  seem  to  invite  us  there,  and  act  as  a beacon-light  to  guide  us  over  its  mighty 
mountains  and  its  broad  and  sunny  plains. 

J.  B.  T. 


[See  Plate  VI.] 


22  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  January  27, 1862.] 

The  Battle  Flag. 

The  papers  are  all  discussing  what  kind  of  Flag  the  South  ought  to  adopt  as  the 
permanent  Ensign  of  the  Confederacy.  It  seems  to  be  generally  agreed  that  the  “ Stars 
and  Bars”  will  never  do  for  us.  They  resemble  too  closely  the  dishonored  Flag  of 
Yankee  Doodle.  Should  the  question  remain  undecided  until  General  Beauregard 
redeems  the  pledge  which  he  has  given— to  plant  upon  the  stately  column  which  towers 
aloft  from  Mount  Vernon  Place,  in  Baltimore,  the  Battle  Flag  given  him  by  a lovely 
and  exiled  rebel  of  Maryland — we  imagine  that  the  Battle  Flag  will  become  the  Southern 
Flag  by  popular  acclaim.  We  are  indebted  to  the  cunning  fingers  of  a lady  friend  for  a 
small  but  very  accurate  and  beautiful  model  of  the  Battle  Flag  under  which  our  brave 
soldiers  on  the  Potomac  will  yet  march  to  victory.  It  may  be  seen  at  the  Mercury  office. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  January  3J,  1862.] 

The  Flag. 

Near  Leesburg,  January  20,  1862. 

Editor  Dispatch — Dear  Sir:  In  addition  to  the  numerous  designs  for  a Confed- 
erate Flag  already  on  your  table,  permit  me  to  offer  one  embracing  both  stars  and  sun, 
which  afford  so  exact  a type  of  the  relations  of  our  State  and  General  Government 
toward  each  other  that  the  seeming  incongruity  in  their  presence  on  the  same  field  may 
be  pardoned,  especially  when  we  reflect  that  they  are  really  always  present  together,  the 
one  overshadowing  only,  not  blotting  out  the  others. 

The  stars  in  this  design,  then,  are.  intended  to  represent  the  individuality  of  the 
States,  shining,  each  in  its  own  sphere,  with  a radiance  steady  and  serene,  though  pale 
in  comparison  with  the  effulgence  of  the  rising  sun,  the  emblem  of  their  united  sover- 
eignty. The  number  of  stars  and  (if  seen  fit)  of  sun-rays  correspond  to  the  number  of 
the  States.  The  red  field  and  dark  band  of  clouds  denote  the  period  of  blood,  dark- 
ness, and  trial  through  which  we  are  now  struggling ; the  white,  the  region  of  peace 
and  prosperity  into  which  we  expect,  with  the  blessing  of  Heaven,  soon  to  emerge. 

This  design  is  so  unlike  that  of  any  other  Flag  that  floats,  especially  the  Yankee, 
as  to  be  unmistakable  ; while  it  enables  us  still  to  assert  our  claim  to  the  “ Star 
Spangled  Banner.” 

For  a National  Coat  of  Arms  I would  suggest  a shield  ’“argent,”  charged  with 
stars,  in  number  as  above,  upon  a blue  belt:  the  crest,  arising  sun  emerging  from 
clouds;  and  for  a motto,  the  words  “In  Deo,"  as  expressive,  in  the  fewest  possible 
words,  of  a sentiment  inappropriate  to  no  people  or  time,  but  peculiarly  appropriate  to 
a people  undergoing  the  baptism  of  fire  that  marks  the  birth  of  the  Southern  Con- 
federacy. [See  Plates  VII,  VIII.] 

Our  coins  (for  we  must  abolish  as  speedily  as  possible  the  Yankee  currency)  might 
show  upon  the  obverse  side  the  crest  as  above,  rimmed  with  stars  equal  in  number  to 
the  number  of  States,  with  the  motto  beneath.  On  the  reverse,  the  date  and  value, 
enclosed  in  a wreath  of  foliage  and  fruits  of  some  of  the  most  important  productions 
of  our  country — such  as  wheat,  cotton,  corn,  rice,  cane,  and  tobacco. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  23 

These  hasty  suggestions  are  thrown  out  for  what  they  are  worth,  in  the  hope  they 
may  at  least  lead  to  something  better,  and  that  speedily  ; for  these  outward  signs  and 
symbols  of  nationality,  small  matter  as  they  seem,  are  really  of  vast  importance,  and 
a Flag  to  fight  under,  and  to  learn  to  love,  is  now  almost  our  greatest  need. 

Before  closing,  let  me  add  a hearty  endorsement  of  the  proposition,  emanating  from 
a writer  in  De  Bow's  Review , that  in  adopting  a new  coinage,  not  only  its  devices,  but 
its  names  and  values,  and  indeed  our  whole  system  of  weights  and  measures  constituting 
our  trade  language,  should  be  radically  altered,  for  the  sake  of  the  wider  and  surer 
separation  from  the  accursed  Yankee  to  which  such  a change  would  materially  conduce. 
As  we  cannot  change  our  mother  tongue,  nor  the  color  of  our  skin,  let  us  at  least 
change  everything  else  that  we  can. 

In  haste,  yours,  &c., 

“ TUERI.” 

[The  design  alluded  to  in  the  above  lias  been  placed  in  our  counting-room  window, 
along  with  other  designs  received  here. — Editors.] 


[From  the  Kichmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  February  6, 1862.] 


Another  Flag. 


The  large  collection  of  Flags  in  the  Dispatch  counting-room  has  been  increased  by 
the  addition  of  a handsome  device,  which  is  thus  explained  by  the  author  : 


“The  Southern  Cross,  on  a field  of  red,  is  expressive  of  the  present  condition  of 
our  infant  nation,  menaced  on  every  side  by  a barbarous  war  ; the  cause  of  the  South 
is  still  pure,  spotless,  and  unharmed.  The  cross  is  intended  to  be  purely  symbolical  of 
the  South,  and  has  no  reference  to  religious  sects,  and  to  avoid  giving  offense  to  any  a 
‘ Saint  Andrew’s’  cross  is  adopted. 

“ The  sun,  on  the  blue  ground,  is  emblematical  of  the  South  itself ; of  its  climate, 
its  productions,  and  its  oneness  of  interests. 

“The  blue  ground,  on  which  the  sun  is  placed,  signifies  the  common  cause  of  all 
the  Southern  States  centered  in  the  South  itself ; it  signifies  fraternity  and  fidelity  of 
the  States  to  each  other  in  this  their  hour  of  trial. 

“ This  Flag  is  simple  in  its  construction  ; it  is  totally  unlike  any  other  in  existence, 
and  owing  to  its  conspicuousness,  it  can  be  seen  and  distinguished  from  all  others  at  a 
great  distance. 

W.  L.  B.” 


[See  Plate  III,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  February  11, 1862.] 

Our  National  Emblem. 

Editor  Examiner  : A National  Emblem  should  symbolize  the  National  Govern- 
ment in  its  history,  nature,  office,  and  fundamental  principles. 

The  lion  of  England  ascribes  the  royal  character  and  undisputed  supremacy  of  the 
king  of  beasts  to  that  noble  government. 


24  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Various  nations,  as  Austria,  Russia,  &c.,  have  assumed  the  free  eagle  as  typical  of 
the  characteristics  of  their  governments. 

It  is  believed  to  be  susceptible  of  proof  that  the  single  star  is  our  proper  National 
Emblem. 

Inasmuch  as  there  are  various  orders  and  classes  of  stars,  it  is  proper  that  a ques- 
tion be  first  raised  in  that  connection.  In  this  view,  we  should  not  think  of  our  star  as 
one  of  the  so-called  fixed  stars,  which  are,  to  human  sight,  in  their  order,  almost  too 
small  to  be  assigned  mere  twinkling  points,  without  apparent  career,  having,  as  far  as 
men  have  yet  discovered,  no  influence  in  creation,  unless  we  accept  the  conjecture  of 
astronomers,  that  they  are  suns,  the  centres  of  other  systems  than  our  own  ; in  which 
case,  though  these  reasons  disappear,  a yet  stronger  one  arises  in  the  fact  that  as  suns 
they  would  shine  by  inherent  rather  than  borrowed  light — which  idea  will  be  found 
inapplicable.  But  rather  should  we  think  of  it  as  a planet,  a world  in  itself,  shining 
steadily,  having  an  evident  career,  bright  and  marked,  unchangeable,  complete,  of 
Almighty  design,  an  essential  chord  in  the  universal  harmony,  of  which  a single  false 
note,  the  slightest  irregularity,  would  destroy  that  harmony  and  upturn  the  universe. 

Now  for  the  points  of  the  analogy — 

1.  Our  Government  hath  foundations,  well  laid  and  sure.  The  star  is  created, 
placed  in  its  relative  position,  and  held  there,  coursing  on  through  space  by  an  Almighty 
hand ; we  ask  no  more.  Though  all  the  firmament  were  studded  thick  as  the  silver 
dust  that  sprinkled  the  gorgeous  milky  way,  and  every  star  were  as  thickly  inhabited, 
the  universe  combined  could  not  affect  one  tittle  in  its  integrity,  nor  move  one  jot  from 
its  course,  the  single  star  so  created,  so  placed,  and  so  held.  The  Almighty  hand  we 
do  not  defy  ; human  hands  we  do.  The  star,  then,  well  symbolizes  the  fact  that  our 
Government  is  durably  founded. 

2.  The  Confederate  Government,  as  the  prominent  idea  of  its  Constitution,  pos- 
sesses no  power  of  its  own,  but  only  exerts  such  as  may  have  been  conferred  upon  it 
by  the  States ; the  star  has  no  light  of  its  own,  but  simply  reflects  such  as  it  receives, 
and  so  symbolizes  the  nature  of  our  Government. 

3.  Inasmuch  as  the  star  borrows  its  light  from  a source  possessing  inherent  light — 
the  sun — as  the  emblem  of  the  Confederate  Government,  it  would  indicate  that  the 
source  from  which  that  Government  derives  its  powers  possesses  itself  inherent  powers — 
in  other  words,  that  the  States  are  independent  sovereigns ; and  as  this  fact  is  a funda- 
mental principle  of  our  Government,  the  star  is  eminently  appropriate  as  indicative 
thereof. 

4.  This  State  sovereignty  is  no  new  principle,  but  equally  original  and  eternal ; 
and  as  the  very  right  of  secession  was  based  upon  the  fact  that  this  principle  was 
original  to  the  old  contract,  this  fact  should  be  indicated  by  retaining  as  our  emblem 
that  which  originally  symbolized  this  relation,  to  wit,  the  single  star. 

5.  As  we  are  not  an  unrecorded  people,  new-sprung  from  the  womb  of  time,  but 
have  a history  peculiarly  our  own,  gloriously  illustrated  by  the  noble  deeds  which  our 
great  Southern  sires  have  done,  it  is  fit  that,  as  Southerners,  we  retain  some  suitable 
connection  with  the  past ; and  the  single  star,  as  the  symbol  of  that  grand  principle 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  25 


(lost  by  the  abomination  of  despotism,  and  our  peculiar  property),  which  was  the  source 
of  all  that  is  to  be  remembered  in  the  system  of  that  past,  furnishes  that  suitable  con- 
nection. 

6.  We  stand  pre-eminent,  bordered  on  either  side  by  nations  steeped  in  political 
darkness.  The  stars  in  their  courses,  lifted  on  high,  shine  amid  surrounding  darkness, 
and  so  illustrate  our  position  and  functions.  Accordingly,  as  the  star  was  selected  to 
guide  the  wise  men  to  the  source  of  human  blessedness,  so  the  star  of  our  Confederacy 
shall  be  a beacon  to  the  nations  to  guide  them  to  that  utmost  of  political  blessings, 
pure  republican  liberty. 

So  much  for  the  single  star,  of  itself.  Now  to  view  it  comparatively. 

The  sun  and  moon  are  both  set  by  the  Almighty  ; but — - 

1.  The  star  is  a better  emblem  than  the  sun,  because  the  sun  shines  by  a light 
inherent  in  itself,  not  borrowed  and  reflected,  like  the  light  of  the  star,  or  the  powers 
of  our  Government.  Moreover,  the  sun  puts  out  of  view  all  other  lights  within  the 
compass  of  its  power.  No  State-rights  man  will  agree  that  such  an  idea  shall  be 
expressed  even  remotely  by  the  emblem  of  the  Confederate  Government. 

2.  The  star  is  better  than  the  queen  of  night,  because  she,  to  human  sight,  is  ever 
changing,  waxing  or  waning,  and  one  no  less  than  the  other.  The  only  course  of 
change  for  us  must  be  onward. 

3.  The  single  star  is  better  than  a number  of  stars,  proportioned  to  the  number  of 
States,  for  if  such  a number  of  stars  be  the  emblem  of  the  nation,  any  change  in  the 
number  of  the  States  would  necessitate  a change  in  the  emblem,  and  this  involves  the 
idea  that  the  character,  or  rather  the  completeness  of  the  nationality,  depends  upon  the 
number  of  States  composing  it — the  very  idea  which  pi-oved  so  pernicious  under  the 
late  Union,  and  which,  entirely  opposed  as  it  is  to  our  whole  system,  we  should  most 
carefully  avoid.  This  number  of  stars,  each  for  a State,  is  further  objectionable 
because  the  States  possess  inherent  powers,  are  suns,  while  a star  simply  reflects. 

To  the  “Southern  Cross,’ ' besides  what  has  just  been  said,  an  objection  is  found 
in  the  fact  that,  however  “far-sighted  ” our  statesmen,  none  of  them  can  make  that 
constellation  from  even  the  southernmost  point  of  the  Confederacy.  It  is  not  ours  ; 
we  are  not  quite  far  enough  from  the  North,  however  painful  the  fact:  and  for  us,  a 
people  fighting  for  our  own  rights,  to  assume  it,  would  be  exceedingly  unbecoming,  as  a 
clear  violation  of  the  rights  of  the  dwellers  in  Terra  del  Fuego,  a people  weaker  than 
o'urselves. 

The  objection  to  the  cross  itself,  as  the  prominent  feature  of  our  Flag,  may  be 
found  on  inspecting  a chart  of  the  Flags  of  other  nations,  where  it  will  be  found,  in 
every  variety  of  shape  and  color,  endlessly  repeated. 

It  is  right,  and  certainly  desired  by  every  thoughtful  man  in  the  nation,  that  some 
thankful  acknowledgment  of  the  Deity  be  a feature  of  our  Banner,  but  the  prominent 
feature  of  the  National  Banner  should  be  the  National  Emblem,  and  that  emblem,  for 
ns,  a single  star. 

I am,  sir,  &c. , 

HEREMON. 

[We  have  printed  the  foregoing  communication,  not  because  we  approve  the  idea, 
but  because  the  subject  is  one  on  which  it  is  well  to  hear  all  rational  suggestions. 


26  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Before  we  get  our  National  Emblem,  we  must  get  rid  of  stars  and  stripes  in  all  their 
variations.  So,  too,  of  all  arrangements  of  red,  white,  and  blue.  Nothing  can  be 
gotton  from  either  but  plagiarisms,  poor  imitations,  feeble  fancies.  Our  Coat  of  Arms 
must  be  not  only  in  accord  with  the  higher  law  of  heraldry,  but,  above  all,  original — 
our  own,  and  not  another’s.  Not  one  of  the  thousand  writers  on  this  topic  has  yet 
presented  an  original  or  appropriate  idea.  Yet  there  is  a thought  which  starts  to  the 
mind’s  eye:  The  National  Emblem  of  the  equestrian  South  is  the  horse.  Its  colors 
are  black  and  white.  Its  shield  is  the  sable  horse  of  Manassas  on  a silver  field.  Its 
Flag  is  the  white  Flag  with  the  black  horse.  Both  colors  are  already  united  to  make 
the  gray  of  the  Confederate  uniform  ; and  emblem  and  colors  are  alike  suggestive  of 
the  country  and  its  history,  and  neither  belong  to  any  other  nation  of  Christians. — 
Editor  Examiner.] 

[See  Plates  IX,  X.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  February  13, 1862.] 

The  New  Flag  of  the  Confederacy. 

We  learn  that  the  committee  of  Congress  charged  with  determining  and  reporting  a 
design  for  the  Flag  of  the  Southern  Confederacy  have  adopted  one,  which  we  reproduce 
in  the  sketch  below  : 


It  will  be  seen  from  this  sketch  that  the  Flag  is  to  be  a blue  “ union  ” on  a red 
field,  the  stars  being  white ; the  national  colors  of  red,  white,  and  blue  being  thus 
reproduced.  There  are  four  stars,  disposed  in  the  form  of  a square  within  the  union. 

The  committee  have  chosen  the  design  from  a great  number  and  variety  submitted 
to  them.  The  collection  of  the  designs  offered  to  the  committee  is  quite  curious — bee- 
hives, snakes,  temples  of  liberty,  and  all  sorts  of  devices  figuring  among  them. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  27 

The  design  adopted,  it  is  understood,  is  almost  unanimously  approved  by  Congress, 
with  the  exception  of  the  stars  and  their  arrangement,  for  which  some  of  the  members 
propose  to  substitute  the  constellation  of  the  Southern  Cross.  It  is  understood  that 
the  other  parts  of  the  design  will  certainly  be  adopted  by  Congress. 

[See  Pi.ate  II,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  February  21, 1SG2.] 

The  design  of  the  new  Confederate  Flag  may  be  seen  at  the  recruiting  office  of  the 
Charleston  Light  Artillery  Company,  No.  29  Broad  street.  The  Flag  presents  two 
designs  : One  of  a crescent,  with  the  thirteen  stars  within  it ; the  other,  of  the  Southern 
Cross,  arranged  in  the  shape  of  a diamond.  This  beautiful  design  was  gotten  up  by 
several  young  ladies  of  this  city. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  February  22,  1862.] 

Our  Coat  of  Arms — The  Live  Oak. 

Editor  Examiner  : So  much  has  been  said  and  written  about  the  various  quilts 
and  counterpanes  and  fringed  hearth-rugs  which  have  been  offered  as  Flags  for  our  Con- 
federacy— some  of  them  as  motley  in  their  coloring  as  Joseph’s  coat — that  very  little 
attention  appears  to  have  been  paid  to  our  heraldic  designation,  our  Coat  of  Arms.  Per- 
mit me,  then,  to  propose  something  in  that  line. 

Two  features  strike  me  as  most  important  in  a design  in  which  it  was  intended  to 
symbolize  our  chief  characteristics  or  our  leading  aspirations,  and  these  are,  great 
simplicity  and  a sufficiency  of  that  historic  regard  for  the  period  when  heraldic  emblems 
had  their  origin,  which  would  prevent  the  introduction  either  of  medieval  misconcep- 
tions, or  of  things  and  thoughts  so  recent  in  their  origin  as  to  become  highly  ridiculous 
when  emblazoned  upon  a knightly  shield.  We  should  neither  have  unicorns  and  dragons, 
nor  steam-engines  and  cotton-bales. 

What  I would  venture  to  propose,  then,  is  a live  oak,  plain  and  simple.  The  live 
oak  is  peculiarly  a Southern  tree,  and  one  of  the  handsomest ; and  its  perennial  verdure 
is  a fit  representation  of  immutability  and  strict  adherence  to  the  principles  of  our 
youth.  The  hardness  and  durability  of  its  wood  is  still  further  illustrative  of  sturdy 
manliness,  while  commerce  owes  to  it  her  finest  ships.  There  is  no  reason  why  we 
should  confine  ourselves  to  animals.  The  graceful  lily,  the  humble  broom-plant,  the 
thistle,  the  trefoil,  the  rose — white  and  red — have  all  in  turn  served  to  designate  nations 
or  families  of  national  importance. 

To  carryout  the  suggestion,  it  is  proposed  to  place  the  tree  upon  a Norman  shield, 
as  it  is  termed  in  heraldry,  the  tapering  grace  of  which  would  relieve  the  robust  round- 
ness of  the  oak.  As  a crest,  the  sun  would  answer  well.  The  sun  in  gold,  the  tree  in 
silver,  the  shield  blue,  or,  according  to  heraldic  terminology  : Shield — a live  oak,  argent, 
on  a field,  azure.  Crest — a sun,  or  a suitable  motto  to  enunciate  strength  and  durability, 
it  would  be  easy  to  select. 


28  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


If  such  an  emblem  were  adopted,  it  would,  at  all  events,  do  away  with  the  rapacious 
eagle,  noble  only  in  fiction — the  representative  of  centralized  power,  from  imperial 
Rome  to  modern  France.  It  would  cast  aside  the  fatal  Phrygian  cap  of  Liberty,  fit  only 
for  a Yankee  rabble,  and  abandon  the  Chaldean  stars,  which,  were  we  to  resume  them 
on  Shield  or  Flag,  we  would  be  forced  to  share  with  countries  as  honorable  and  deserving 
of  imitation  as  the  United  States,  Liberia,  and  the  Sandwich  Islands. 

I am,  sir,  &c., 

0.  M.  L. 


[See  Plate  XI.] 


The  Confederate  Flag. 


Camp  Wigfai.i,,  February  17,  1862. 

Editor  Examiner  : In  an  issue  of  your  paper,  a few  days  since,  the  design  of  the 
future  Confederate  Flag  was  represented,  with  some  comments  thereon.  To  those  you 
may  add  the  following,  if  you  should  so  wish : 

The  stars  are  only  borrowed  lights  from  the  old  Federal  Flag,  and  are  in  nowise 
suitable  to  represent  our  nationality  of  States,  although  they  may  be,  to  the  inhabitants 
of  the  Sandwich  Islands  and  Liberia,  fitting  emblems  to  adorn  their  colors.  The  South- 
ern Cross,  which  seems  to  have  been  suggested,  is  not  applicable  as  a design  in  any 
part  of  the  Flag,  as  it  is  a constellation  not  visible  in  any  portion  of  our  territory. 
Another  objection  would  be  the  fact,  that  in  many  other  National  Flags  the  cross,  in 
its  various  forms,  is  an  emblem,  and  is  also  symbolical  of  religious  sectarianism.  The 
white  in  the  Flag  will  not  be  sufficient  to  present  a contrast  to  the  two  colors,  red  and 
blue,  if  represented  by  the  proposed  constellation ; but  the  sun  substituted  in  the  place 
of  stars  would  obviate  the  objection  raised.  Our  Government,  as  one  whose  aim  is  to 
approach  the  highest  form  of  political  liberty,  and  to  thus  establish  the  firmest  basis  of 
our  civil  and  social  systems  ; our  climate,  with  our  agricultural  interests  in  all  its  con- 
nections, in  the  particular  means  adapted  for  giving  to  the  whole  civilized  world  our 
great  staples,  and  the  power,  influence,  and  good  exerted  by  these  productions,  are  well 
illustrated  by  this  great  planet. 

I am.  sir,  &c. , 

TRIO. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  March  0,  1862.] 

The  Flag  of  the  Confederacy. 

There  is  no  mistaking  the  very  general  dissatisfaction  existing  with  the  “ Stars  and 
Bars,”  adopted,  in  the  early  stage  of  this  revolution,  by  the  Provisional  Congress,  as 
the  Confederate  Ensign.  A cognate  variation  of  the  United  States  Flag,  similar  in 
idea,  pattern,  and  color,,  squinting  strongly  at  “ reorganization,”  and  undistinguishable 
at  a distance  by  sea  or  land,  it  is  suited  neither  to  the  taste  for  national  independence, 
the  sectional  feelings,  nor  the  practical  uses  of  the  Southern  Standard.  Congress 
itself,  stimulated,  we  presume,  by  the  action  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  at  its  last 
session  took  the  matter  again  in  hand.  The  committee  sat  and  reported  a Flag,  which 
has  been  erroneously  published  as  adopted  by  Congress — red  field  and  blue  union, 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  29 

flecked  with  four  white  stars,  intended  to  indicate  the  four  corners  of  a St.  Andrew's 
cross.  We  Are  informed  that  this  Flag  was  not  adopted,  or  any  other;  but  that  the 
body  having  shown  a preference  for  another  Ensign,  transferred  the  whole  subject  over 
to  the  new  Congress,  now  in  session.  Our  readers  may  have  noticed,  among  the  com- 
mittees of  the  new  House  of  Representatives,  one  on  the  “Flag  and  Seal.”  The 
matter  is,  therefore,  open  for  determination.  Below  we  give  cuts  of  four  designs  : 


The  first  is  that  for  which  the  Provisional  Congress  indicated  a preference,  without 
adopting  it.  Although  handsomer  than  the  “Stars  and  Bars,”  and  unlike  any  other 
Standard,  it  has  a look  of  singularity  of  design  which  we  do  not  fancy. 


The  second  is  the  Battle  Flag  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  adopted  by  Generals 
Beauregard  and  Johnston,  to  avoid  mistakes  of  troops  in  future.  Though  rich  and 
handsome,  it  is  objectionable  to  some  religious  denominations — the  Israelites,  if  not  the 


80  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Roman  Catholics — in  a country  in  which  Church  and  State  are  separate.  It  therefore 
is  not  likely  to  be  chosen.  * 


The  third  is  unique  and  handsome.  The  division  is  similar  to  that  of  the  old 
Knights  Templar  Flag,  but  the  colors  and  centre  are  different.  The  sun  [gold  or  yel- 
low on  a blue  shield],  with  a ray  for  each  State,  dispenses  with  the  borrowed  stars, 
while  emblematic  of  latitude  of  our  country,  source  of  our  agricultural  wealth,  and 
also  of  the  warmth  and  geniality  of  Southern  character. 


The  fourth  and  last  is  a Flag  of  peculiar  dignity  and  simplicity.  It  is  altogether 
unlike  the  Ensign  of  any  other  nation,  and  especially  unlike  that  of  the  Yankee  nation. 
Those  who  imagine  that  a Flag  should  be  symbolical  will  find  in  the  colors  of  this  one — 
white  and  black — an  obvious  significance.  Such  a Standard  would  typify  our  faith  in 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  31 


the  “ peculiar  institution,”  and  be  an  enduring  mark  of  our  resolve  to  retain  that 
institution  while  we  exist  as  an  independent  people.  For  maritime  ,uses,  this  proposed 
Flag,  although  it  discards  the  everlasting  Yankee  stars  and  the  worn-out  combinations 
of  “fed,  white,  and  blue,”  would  be  distinguishable  at  as  great  distance  as  any  other 
that  can  be  devised. 

The  Union-jack  of  all  these  Flags  is  similar  to  the  Ensign  itself,  as  in  the  French, 
Spanish,  and  other  naval  service.  The  Pennant,  streaming  to  the  wind,  could  readily 
be  made. 

[See  Plates  XII,  XIU,  XIV.] 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  March  7,  1802.] 

The  Flag  Question.  . 

A new  and  rich  design  for  our  National  Flag  can  be  seen  at  our  office  : Scarlet 
field  ; Maltese  cross,  blue  ; stars,  white. 

[See  P late  XV.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch,  March  8, 1862.] 

The  Flag. 

It  is  rumored  that  a committee  of  Congress  has  agreed  upon  a National  Flag,  to  take 
the  place  of  the  present  abominable  parody  on  the  Stars  and  Stripes.  We  very  much 
apprehend  that  upon  the  mere  question  of  taste  the  Congress  will  not  devise  a proper 
Flag ; but  we  trust  that,  whatever  the  device  chosen,  it  may  have  the  merit  of  being 
wholly  unlike  either  the  Federal  Flag  or  that  we  now  have.  With  respect  to  Flags  and 
pictures,  we  put  little  faith  in  the  decisions  of  a legislative  body,  or  any  large  number 
of  men.  It  would  be  better  to  trust  the  whole  matter  to  two  or  three  gentlemen  who 
are  competent  in  the  premises.  But,  nevertheless,  we  would  be  willing  to  compromise 
on  anything  that  is  novel,  and  entirely  unlike  the  Federal  and  present  Confederate  Flag. 
We  would  like  to  add  that  it  shall  have  no  “ stars  ” in  it.  We  sympathize  somewhat 
with  a distinguished  Southern  Senator,  who  declared  that  no  man  who  talked  about 
“ stars”  had  the  faintest  conception  of  the  present  revolution. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  March  10,  1862.J 

The  Flag  of  Secession. 

At  the  “ Old  Church  ” in  Hanover 
A noble  deed  was  done 
Upon  the  sixth  of  April, 

In  eighteen  sixty-one. 

By  the  hand  of  graceful  woman, 

Good  angels  thus  to  please, 

A signal  of  Secession 

Was  given  to  the  breeze. 


32  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Amid  the  cheers  of  honest  men 
And  smiling  faces  fair, 

Who,  from  their  love  of  liberty, 
In  numbers  large  were  there, 
The  Flag  of  Freedom  gently  rose 
Some  sixty  feet  or  more, 
Awaking  in  each  heart  around 
Emotions  still  before. 


Connections  of  our  Washington, 

That  true  man,  great  and  good. 

In  the  blush  of  youth  and  beauty 
Beneath  that  Banner  stood, 

Whilst  peal  on  peal  of  musketry, 
liesounding  in  the  air, 

Bespoke  the  “ Gray’s  ” allegiance 
To  the  Flag  that  floated  there. 

Newton,  Jones,  and  Tucker,  too, 

Were  there  to  tell  how  oft 
Their  anxious  hearts  had  yearned  to  see 
That  Ensign  raised  aloft ; 

How  gladly  then  they  greeted  it — 

How  willingly  they  would, 

If  called  upon  the  deed  to  do, 

Baptize  it  with  their  blood. 

O’er  thirteen  States  that  Flag  now  floats, 
In  bold  and  brave  defiance 
Of  Northern  will  the  South  to  bind 
In  union  or  alliance  ; 

And  ’neath  its  folds  in  conflict  fierce 
Our  hero  bands  have  fought, 

And  won,  by  valor,  honor  bright 
As  Fame’s  fair  hand  e’er  wrought. 

Oh,  still  in  triumph  may  it  wave 
Above  the  brave  and  true, 

Till  to  the  breeze  the  “ sun  ” is  thrown 
Upon  a “ field  of  blue,” 

Which  Heaven  grant ! may  never  set 
In  dismal  clouds  of  black, 

But  burst  therefrom  more  brilliant  still. 
Like  sun  on  night’s  dark  track. 

Let  its  disc  be  never  dimmed 
By  deeds  of  darkness  done 
Among  a people  who  with  prayer 
Our  glorious  work  begun, 

But  let  us,  for  our  country’s  cause, 

A Nation’s  sin  eschew, 

That  we  may  have  approving  smiles 
Of  God  and  angels  too. 

Artillery  Camp  near  Centreville,  Va.,  March  1, 18G2. 


WINFRED. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  33 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  March  28, 1862.] 

The  Flag,  Seal,  and  Coins  of  the  Confederacy. 

The  committee  of  Congress  charged  with  the  subject  is  yet  considering  the  model 
of  a Flag  and  devices  for  a Seal  and  the  coins  of  the  Confederate  States.  Mr.  Boteler, 
of  Virginia,  is  chairman  of  the  standing  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal.  From  what 
we  can  learn,  there  are  no  special  ideas  favored  by  Congress  with  reference  to  these 
insignia  of  our  nationality,  and  the  subject  is  immaterial  beyond  a general  preference 
among  members  of  Congress  that  the  Flag  should  be  as  unlike  as  possible  the  Stars 
and  Stripes  of  the  United  States. 

The  present  Confederate  Flag  was  balloted  for  in  the  Provisional  Congress,  and 
was  selected  by  a majority  of  votes  out  of  four  different  models.  At  the  time  of  the 
early  session  of  Congress  at  Montgomery,  the  popular  sentiment  was  almost  unanimous, 
and  very  urgent,  that  the  main  features  of  the  old  Federal  Constitution  should  be  copied 
into  our  new  Government,  and  that  to  follow  out  and  give  expression  to  this  idea  our 
Flag  should  be  as  close  a copy  as  possible  of  the  Federal  Ensign.  A resolution,  we 
believe,  was  introduced  in  the  Provisional  Congress  to  the  effect  that  our  Flag  should 
be  as  little  different  as  possible  from  that  of  the  Federal  Government ; which  resolution 
was  vigorously  opposed  by  Mr.  Miles,  of  South  Carolina,  who  was  then  chairman  of 
the  Flag  Committee.  The  design  recommended  by  Mr.  Miles,  but  voted  down,  has 
since  been  adopted  as  the  Battle  Flag  of  Generals  Johnston  and  Beauregard.  It  is  a 
blue  saltier  (or  Maltese  cross),  with  inner  rows  of  stars,  on  a red  field — the  emblem  of 
the  saltier  ( saltere , to  leap)  being  appropriately  that  of  progress  and  power.  The  two 
other  competing  designs,  from  which  our  present  Flag  was  selected,  were  one  and 
almost  exact  reproductions  of  the  Federal  Stars  and  Stripes,  the  only  variation  being 
that  of  a blue  stripe,  and  the  other  a simple  blue  circle  or  rim  on  a red  field.  The 
consideration  that  determined  the  selection  of  the  present  Flag  was  its  similarity  to 
that  of  the  old  Government. 

We  are  glad  to  learn  that  there  is  a decided  improvement  of  ideas  in  the  present 
Congress  with  respect  to  our  National  Flag  and  Coat  of  Arms.  The  ideas  conceded 
on  this  subject  seem  to  be  that  the  considerations  to  be  consulted  in  the  remodeling  of 
our  Flag  are  that  it  should  contain  a proper  element  of  beauty  ; that  it  should  be  simple 
in  design,  and  also  striking  to  the  eye;  that  “the  union’’  is  no  essential  part  of  the 
design,  the  only  argument  for  it,  which  is  the  convenience  of  signaling  distress  by 
reversing  it,  not  applying  in  our  improved  methods  and  codes  of  signals,  and  that  the 
representations  of  natural  objects  on  the  Flag  are  subject  to  the  serious  objection  that, 
unless  they  have  the  advantage  of  the  skill  of  an  artist,  they  are  likely,  in  nine  cases 
out  of  ten,  to  be  caricatures. 

[N.  B. — Few  Americans  are  capable  of  comprehending  that  the  birds  and  beasts 
of  heraldry  are  not  intended  to  be  representations  of  natural  objects,  but  arbitrary  and 
fixed  signs,  having  a beauty  of  their  own.] 

The  design  of  the  Flag  offered  by  Mr.  Miles  was  accompanied  by  that  of  a Coat  of 
Arms,  which  is  said  to  be  most  popular.  A sketch  has  been  made  of  it,  which  we  may 
rudely  describe.  The  design  is  a shield  divided  by  the  saltier,  the  four  quarters  being 
ornamented  by  representations  of  our  four  great  staples — cotton,  tobacco,  sugar,  and 


34  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Indian  corn — the  figures  of  agriculture  and  commerce  on  the  sides  uniting  their  hands, 
with  the  Latin  motto  beneath:  11  Addenda  juvant .”  The  reverse  is  a scroll,  inscribed 
with  the  words  “ Constitutional  Liberty,”  and  beneath  it  the  motto  from  Cicero  : “Nulla 
potestas  super  leges."  [This  design  may  seem  to  many  a very  pretty  fancy;  and  it 
would  look  well  on  a country  bank-note.  But,  when  we  attempt  the  construction  of  a 
Coat  of  Arms,  we  enter  the  province  of  heraldry,  and  it  would  be  easy  to  show  that 
Mr.  Miles’  design  is  a sin  against  every  canon  of  taste  and  faith*  established  by  that 
science.] 

Our  Coat  of  Arms,  and  the  device  for  our  coins,  should  bear,  in  signification  at 
least,  a certain  relation  to  our  Flag,  the  design  of  which  will  readily  suggest  those  of 
our  other  insignia  of  nationality.  Our  country  must  be  sadly  lacking  in  invention  and 
genius  if  it  cannot  produce  some  design  for  our  Flag  in  which  there  shall  be  in  no  form 
whatever  either  stars  or  stripes,  which  the  Government  that  oppresses  us  has  forever 
polluted. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  March  29, 1862.] 

A National  Coat  of  Arms,  like  a National  Flag,  is  not,  as  some  suppose,  a super- 
fluous ornament.  One  is  a necessity  of  war,  the  other  of  civil  relations,  both  with 
foreign  governments  and  our  own  people.  Every  nation  now  in  the  world,  or  recorded 
in  history,  has  been  known  by  an  emblem  or  significant  device.  The  armorial  insignia 
of  the  tribes  of  Israel  are  clearly  given  in  the  oldest  of  books ; the  asp  of  Egypt,  the 
royal  archer  of  Persia,  the  horse  of  Carthage,  the  owl  of  Athens,  the  eagle  of  Rome, 
the  dragon  of  China,  served  their  purpose  two  thousand  years  before  the  earliest  inven- 
tions of  modern  heraldry ; and  the  universal  fact  abundantly  proves  the  actual  utility 
and  imperative  need  of  a fixed  national  type  or  signal  for  many  of  the  most  ordinary 
acts  of  every  organized  government. 

The  Southern  Confederacy  will  find  itself  compelled  to  choose  an  emblem,  and 
arrange  it  in  the  heraldic  form  now  common  to  other  nations.  It  is  important  that  an 
object  which  must  appear  on  many  solemn  occasions,  and  around  which  will  cluster  the 
dearest  associations  of  patriotism,  should  be  creditable  to  the  country  and  fitting  to  its 
purposes.  If  such  a choice  could  be  well  executed  at  once,  it  would  be  a convenience 
to  the  Government  and  a pleasure  to  the  people.  In  a country  where  the  heraldic 
science  is  generally  understood  by  educated  men,  and  where  there  are  able  professors 
of  the  art  in  every  large  city,  the  work  of  that  Congressional  Committee  on  Flag  and 
Seal,  which  so  often  reappears  in  the  reports,  could  be  done  in  a morning.  But  this 
is  not  the  case  in  any  part  of  North  America.  Few,  very  few,  persons  here  have  any 
other  than  the  most  vague  ideas  on  the  laws  and  spirit  of  blazonry ; and  even  those  few 
have  learned  their  smattering  knowledge  from  the  books  of  English  heraldry,  which  is 
the  worst  in  taste,  the  most  complicated  and  ignoble,  as  it  is  also  the  least  esteemed  in 
the  civilized  world.  Hence  the  Coats  of  Arms  adopted  by  the  States  of  the  late  Union 
are  nearly  all  bad,  and,  from  their  artificial  and  complicated  character,  have  entirely 
failed  to  attract  popular  affection.  Indeed,  the  figures  on  their  various  seals  scarcely 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  35 

deserve  the  name  of  blazon.  Not  only  are  they  destitute  of  heraldic  arrangement,  but, 
instead  of  the  figures  of  heraldry,  which  are  arbitrary  types,  not  intended  to  be  repre- 
sentations of  real  things,  but  having  a beauty  peculiar  to  themselves,  they  have  deline- 
ated a number  of  familiar  objects  entirely  unsuitable  to  that  science,  which  might  look 
well  in  a painting,  if  executed  by  the  hand  of  a great  artist,  but  which  make  a poor 
and  paltry  show  in  the  form  of  a Coat  of  Arms.  Some  have  an  allegory  on  their  shield, 
others  a landscape  some  have  fancy  pictures  relating  to  some  story  or  theory.  Hence 
they  are  condemned  alike  by  the  taste  of  those  who  have  studied  such  subjects,  and  by 
the  indifference  of  the  multitude,  who  are  oblivious  of  what  makes  no  single  and  easily 
recollected  image  of  the  memory. 

Yet  the  eagle  of  the  Union  has  made  as  deep  and  powerful  impression  on  our 
people  as  the  bears  of  Berne,  the  lion  of  England,  on  the  inhabitants  of  those  countries  ; 
for  that  device  was  well  chosen,  probably  by  those  who  had  taken  the  pains  to  get  good 
information  on  the  matter  intrusted  to  them,  or  perhaps  employed  the  assistance  of 
some  professional  hand. 

Considering  the  numberless  failures  already  made  by  American  States  in  their 
ignorant  and  premature  attempts  to  devise  proper  insignia,  it  is  hoped  that  the  Con- 
gressional committee  will  not  be  in  too  great  a hurry  to  fix  another  abortion  on  us. 
Especially  is  it  desirable  that  they  should  make  the  plan  which  they  think  most  appro- 
priate known  to  the  public  before  it  was  established  by  law.  The  fate  of  the  Flag  invented 
at  Montgomery  should  be  a warning  to  them  against  secrecy  and  haste. 

Public  taste  cannot  be  compelled,  and  the  Flag  has  been  found  so  objectionable  to 
it,  and  is  opposed  by  so  many  solid  arguments,  that  it  has  become  necessary  to  change 
it.  It  would  be  unfortunate  if  the  Congress  should  adopt  a Coat  of  Arms  with  a like 
result ; and  the  only  means  of  avoiding  such  mishaps  is  to  subject  its  project  to  general 
examination  before  it  is  finally  decided  on. 

The  scheme  said  to  be  at  present  most  popular  with  the  committee — a shield,  being 
representations  of  cotton,  corn,  tobacco,  and  wheat — would  better  serve  for  the  vignette 
of  a counterfeit  note  on  a rural  bank  than  the  escutcheon  of  a nation.  Without  entering 
into  technicalities,  we  may  remind  its  inventor  that  there  are  certain  plain  principles  of 
common  sense,  as  well  as  heraldry,  against  which  it  offends  : 

1.  That  simplicity  and  unity  are  the  first  requisites  of  a device  that  is  intended  to 
impress  itself  on  the  eye  of  a multitude ; and  that  one  figure  on  a Shield  is  better  than 
several. 

2.  That  the  national  device  is  part  of  a Coat  of  Arms ; its  signification  should  be 
warlike,  and  should  express  the  power  and  courage,  some  capacity  for  offense  or  defense 
of  a nation,  rather  than  any  other  class  of  ideas. 

3.  That  the  objects  chosen  should  be  such  as  can  be  easily  and  clearly  represented 
in  the  style  or  mannerism  usual  in  blazonry,  without  which  only  can  armorial  insignia 
be  long  tolerable  to  the  eye  and  taste. 

The  vegetables  which  are  proposed  for  the  Shield  of  the  Southern  Confederacy  are 
undoubtedly  valuable — so  are  carrots  and  turnips — but  they  are  not  the  figures  likely  to 
recur  in  imagination  excited  by  patriotism,  nor  to  be  associated  with  the  dignity  of  the 
country  or  its  power  of  defense  or  punishment. 


36  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Whig,  April  1, 1862.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

The  suggestion  has  been  made  that  the  Joint  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal,  in 
Congress,  shall,  instead  of  adopting  a design  for  the  National  Flag,  select  three  or 
four  of  the  best  designs  from  the  number  before  the  committee,  and  submit  them  to 
the  taste  and  judgment  of  the  people  before  making  their  final  decision.  The  sugges- 
tion is  a good  one,  and  we  trust  will  meet  the  approval  of  the  committee. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  April  7, 1862.] 

The  Flag  of  the  South. 

BY  PILLUM. 

0 tell  me  no  more  that  our  soldiers  are  hunting 
The  country  all  over  for  fragments  of  “ hunting,” 
While  plenty  as  birds  in  the  forests  surrounding 
The  tints  of  our  National  Flag  are  abounding. 

Say  where  is  the  streamer  that  ever  displayed 
A crimson  so  rich  as  the  lip  of  the  maid 
That  blushed  when  you  kissed  her,  and  wishes  again 
The  time  for  reviving  the  roseate  stain  ? 

Or  show  me  a white  so  devoid  of  a speck 
As  the  arms  last  lovingly  hung  on  your  neck  ; 

And  as  the  sweet  mist  of  her  breath  filled  the  air, 

You  fancied  that  lilies  were  clustering  there. 

Then  where  upon  earth  a more  heavenly  blue 
Than  those  mimic  firmaments  melting  for  you  ? 

And  when  the  clouds  flash  from  those  miniature  skies 
A “ system  ” of  stars  will  be  found  in  her  eyes. 

Rosy  lips  to  encourage,  blue  eyes  to  invite, 

White  arms  to  encircle  us  after  the  fight ; 

When  such  are  the  colors  we  gather  about  us, 

There  is  not  an  enemy  living  can  rout  us. 

Each  heart  is  a breastwork,  the  foeman  will  find, 

When  these  are  the  Ensigns  unfurled  to  the  wind ; 

And  while  a pulse  beats,  we  should  never  despair. 

But  remember  the  Flag  of  our  country  is  there. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  April  12, 1862.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

The  Joint  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  have  had  two  or  three  meetings  this  week, 
but  have  not  yet,  we  understand,  agreed  upon  any  design  for  a National  Flag.  We 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  37 

had  “ a look  ” yesterday  at  some  of  the  numerous  designs  submitted  to  the  committee, 
and  contemplated  giving  a description  of  them,  but  found  that  the  undertaking  would 
involve  the  consumption  of  more  time  and  space  than  we  could  devote  to  the  matter. 
Among  the  designs  were  four  silken  miniature  Flags,  evidently  prepared  by  ladies. 
These  we  will  describe  : 

Blue  union,  with  four  golden  stars,  equidistant,  in  diamond  shape — red  fly.  [Same 
design,  except  as  to  arrangement  of  stars,  as  Plate  II,  Part  I,]  Same  design — white 
fly.  [See  Plate  XVI.] 

Blue  union,  with  narrow  white  diamond  in  centre,  and  a white  star  in  the  diamond- 
red  fly.  [See  Plate  XVII.] 

Blue  fly,  with  red  border — in  union  corner  of  blue  ground,  thirteen  white  stars. 
[See  Plate  XVIII.] 

Among  the  various  designs  are — ■ 

Red  fly,  blue  union,  and  golden  sun  in  the  union — one  ray  for  each  State.  [See 
Plate  XIX.] 

One  red  and  one  blue  bar,  large  white  star  in  centre — thirteen  blue  stars  within 
white  star.  [See  Plate  XX.] 

Red  border,  and  white  interval  surrounding  blue  parallelogram,  with  twelve  stars 
in  a circle  and  in  centre,  in  union,  corner  of  blue.  [See  Plate  XXI.] 

Blue  and  red  bars,  white  stars  in  form  of  a cross  in  the  centre.  Sun  in  union 
corner.  [See  Plate  XXII.] 

Quadrated  Flag — upper  bar,  half  blue,  half  white;  lower  bar,  half  white,  half  red- 
thirteen  stars  in  union.  (Very  unique.)  [See  Plate  XXIII.] 

Yellow  fly,  red  union,  with  blue  cross,  on  white  ground.  [See  Plate  XXIV.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  April  16, 1802.] 

The  New  Flag. 

We  learn  that  the  Joint  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  have  agreed  upon  a design 
for  a Confederate  Flag,  which  will  probably  be  submitted  to  the  respective  houses 
to-day.  The  design  consists  of  a red  fly  and  blue  union.  In  the  centre  of  the  union 
is  a golden  (yellow)  sun,  with  thirteen  rays,  corresponding  to  the  number  of  the  States. 
Seven  of  the  rays,  alternately  arranged,  are  somewhat  longer  than  the  others.  “The 
fly,”  or  body  of  the  Flag,  is  ornamented  with  an  argent  (white)  saltire,  or  St.  Andrew’s 
cross,  the  feet  resting  within  the  sides  of  the  Flag,  and  the  lower  line  of  the  upper  sin- 
istral  bar  striking  the  corner  of  the  union.  This  design  meets  the  wishes  of  those  who 
favor  the  expressive  symbol  of  the  sun,  as  well  as  of  those  who  prefer  the  cross.  The 
two  symbols  are  combined,  perhaps,  as  happily  as  it  was  possible  to  unite  them  on  the 
same  design  ; but  the  cross,  by  contact  with  the  union,  presents  an  incompleteness  which 
strikes  the  eye  at  once,  and  two  irregular  unsymmetrical  angles  are  formed  below  and 
to  the  right  of  the  union,  which  do  not  present  a pleasing  appearance. 

[See  Plate  III,  Part  I.] 


38  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Whig,  April  19, 1862.] 

Confederate  Flag. 

A design  is  about  to  be  submitted  to  Congress  which  is  in  some  danger  of  being 
adopted.  The  Flag  of  the  Sun  and  the  Southern  Cross  are  combined  in  this  design. 
The  cross  cuts  the  Flag  into  all  sorts  of  triangles,  and  the  sun  is  represented  by  a pic- 
ture, such  as  we  see  in  the  geographies  and  spelling-books.  Is  there  no  taste  in  Con- 
gress? The  Flag  of  the  Sun  needs  no  likeness.  It  might  be  represented  in  the  color 
of  the  body  of  the  Flag ; let  this  be  a rich  golden  hue,  or,  if  that  color  fades,  let  it  be  a 
deep  red,  the  color  of  fire,  of  which  the  sun  is  the  central  source.  Nor  need  the  cross 
straggle  all  across  the  Flag,  splitting  it  into  triangles.  Dispense  with  the  “union” 
entirely,  and  let  the  cross  be  of  medium  size,  and  in  the  centre  of  the  Flag.  Its  color 
should  be  white. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  April  19, 18G2.] 


The  New  Flag. 


We  are  informed  that  Congress  has  definitely  adopted  a Flag.  The  bad  wood-cut 
will  give  the  reader  a clear  conception  of  it,  though  a very  moderate  standard  of  the  art 
of  wood  engraving  in  Richmond.  As  will  be  perceived,  the  maker  has  taken  pains  to 
inscribe  his  name  beneath  it,  and  we  will  volunteer  a statement  of  his  terms,  which 
were  five  dollars  for  what  the  reader  sees. 

The  Flag  is  thus  described  in  the  terms  of  English  heraldry  (the  worst  of  all  the 
schools) : 

On  a field  gules  (red),  a saltier  argent  (white) ; a Norman  shield,  azure  (blue), 
charged  with  a sun  or  (yellow). 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  39 

This  Flag  answers  several  requisites.  It  is  sufficiently  original ; it  is  brilliant ; it 
is  easily  discernable.  The  chosen  emblem,  the  sun,  is  tolerably  characteristic  of  a 
southern  country.  These  are  the  main  wants,  and  the  Flag  complies  with  them. 

There  are  also  objections  to  it.  The  chief  is  the  fact  that  the  sun  is  difficult  to 
represent  at  all,  and  almost  impossible  in  heraldic  style.  It  has  been  tried.  The  sun 
was  the  chosen  emblem  of  Louis  XIV.  It  is  still  to  be  seen  on  his  innumerable  monu- 
ments, in  bronze,  marble,  granite,  gold,  and  silver,  and  the  effect  is  always  poor.  The 
glory  and  beauty  of  the  sun  is  its  light,  which  cannot  be  represented,  and  the  armorial 
type  of  it  is  nothing  better  than  a sunflower. 

We  are  not  disposed  to  quarrel  with  the  Flag  decided  on,  but  think  that  the  com- 
mittee would  have  done  better  had  they  selected  a simpler  and  less  difficult  emblem. 
A horse  rampant  would  have  nobly  designated  the  equestrian  South  ; a bull  lowering 
his  horns  would  have  fitly  characterized  its  courage,  strength,  and  defensive  temper; 
either  would  have  become  a beloved  and  peculiar  national  type.  As  to  the  colors,  red, 
white,  and  blue  belong  to  everybody.  We  still  retain  the  opinion  that  black  and  white 
are  not  only  our  national  colors,  familiar  to  the  eye  from  the  common  dress  of  the 
people,  unappropriated  by  any  other  Christian  nation,  but  are  the  most  elegant,  simple, 
and  dignified  that  we  could  have  chosen.  Not  one  of  the  objections  urged  against 
them — such  as  the  difficulty  of  distinguishing  the  National  Banner  from  the  Flags  of 
truce  on  land,  or  the  foam  of  a wave  at  sea — will  bear  examination.  We  fear  that  the 
true  reason  why  they  have  occurred  to  the  reflections  of  few,  and  have  found  favor  with 
the  taste  of  a still  less  number  of  persons,  is  the  fact  that  they  are  not  gaudy. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  April  21, 1862.] 

The  New  Flag  of  the  Confederacy. 

The  committee  appointed  by  Congress  to  choose  a suitable  Flag  for  the  Confederate 
States  has  at  last  closed  its  labors,  and  recommended  for  adoption  the  design  given 
above.  [See  Plate  III,  Part  I.]  The  Flag  is  thus  described  in  the  terms  of  English 
heraldry : 

On  a field  gules  (red),  a saltier  argent  (white);  a Norman  shield,  azure  (blue), 
charged  with  a sun  or  (yellow). 

The  new  ensign  is  certainly  rich,  brilliant,  and  easily  distinguishable.  The  sun  has 
been  very  frequently  urged  as  the  proper  emblem  for  the  South,  and  the  rays,  which  are 
to  be  alternately  long  and  short,  will  suffice  to  represent  the  separate  sovereignty  of  the 
States.  Many  would  have  preferred  a more  simple  arrangement,  to  consist  of  two 
colors  only;  but,  inasmuch  as  the  committee’s  device  in  nowise  resembles  the  Flag  of 
the  Yankees,  we  suppose  that  it  will  be  generally  well  relished  by  the  people.  The  new 
Flag,  however,  has  yet  to  receive  the  sanction  of  Congress,  and  may  be  rejected  alto- 
gether by  that  body. 


40  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  April  21,  1862.] 

Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

House  of  Representatives,  April  19,  1802. 

* * * * * 

Mr.  Boteler,  of  Virginia,  offered  the  following  report  from  the  Joint  Committee  on 
Flag  and  Seal  of  the  Confederacy : 

To  the  Honorable  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  of  the  Confederate  States : 

The  Joint  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  submit  to  the  judgment  of  Congress  the 
accompanying  design  for  a Flag,  and  recommend  its  adoption  as  the  Flag  of  the  Con- 
federate States  of  America. 

The  considerations  which  influenced  the  committee  in  selecting  the  proposed  design 
were : 

1.  The  want  of  resemblance  to  the  Flag  of  any  other  nation. 

2.  The  distinctness  of  its  colors  rendering  it  discernible  at  a distance. 

3.  Its  simplicity  and  consequent  facility  of  fabrication  for  an  emergency. 

4.  Its  conformity  to  the  proprieties  of  heraldry. 

5.  Its  symbolization  of  the  characteristics  of  a free  and  prosperous  people. 

Ancient  heralds,  in  their  quaint  language,  would  describe  this  Flag  : On  a field 

gules  (red),  saltier  argent  (white),  with  a shield  azure  (blue),  charged  with  a sun  in  his 
glory,  or  (yellow). 

The  red  field  denotes  nautical  powers,  boldness,  courage,  valor. 

The  saltier,  an  ‘‘honorable  ordinary”  in  heraldry,  is  the  emblem  of  progress  and 
strength  ; its  white  indicating  purity,  innocence,  and  gentleness. 

The  blue  of  the  shield  represents  justice  and  faith,  perseverance  and  vigilance. 

The  sun  manifests  the  dominion,  generosity,  and  stability  of  the  Confederacy. 

Nearly  all  the  designs  submitted  to  the  committee  contained  a combination  of 
stars.  This  heraldic  emblem,  however,  has  been  discarded  as  a manifestation  of  our 
entire  and  absolute  severance  from  the  United  States,  at  the  complete  annihilation  of 
every  sentiment  indicating  the  faintest  hope  of  reconstruction. 

Respectfully  submitted. 

T.  J.  SEMMES, 

Chairman  of  the  Committee  on  the  part  of  the  Senate. 

ALEXANDER  R.  BOTELER, 

Chairman  on  the  part  of  the  House. 

Mr.  Boteler  offered  the  following  joint  resolution  on  the  part  of  the  committee : 

JOINT  RESOLUTION  adopting  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

Resolved  by  the  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America.  That  the  Flag  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows:  A red  field  charged  with  a white  saltier, 
having  in  the  centre  the  device  of  a sun  in  its  glory  on  an  azure  ground,  the  rays  of  the 
sun  corresponding  with  the  number  of  the  States  composing  the  Confederacy.  [See 
Plate  III,  Part  I.] 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  41 


Mr.  Boteler,  the  chairman  of  the  committee,  said  that  it  might  be  a matter  of  sur- 
prise to  those  who  had  always  been  so  enthusiastic  on  the  subject  of  the  beauty  of  the 
Stars  and  Stripes  that  there  never  was  a single  star  emblazoned  on  any  Flag  of  the  old 
United  States.  They  were  nothing  but  mullets,  or  imitations  of  the  rowels  of  the 
spurs  of  the  knight,  and  five-pointed.  But  the  committee  had  fallen  upon  these  heraldic 
emblems,  and  had  adopted  the  device  of  the  great  luminary  of  day,  before  which  all 
stars  shall  pale  and  fade  into  obscurity. 

Mr.  Miles,  of  South  Carolina,  said  that  he  had  been  upon  the  committee  of  the 
Provisional  Congress  which  was  appointed  to  adopt  a design  for  a Flag.  He  had 
strenuously  opposed  the  adoption  of  the  present  Flag  used  by  our  Confederacy,  and  in 
consequence  of  that  had  drawn  down  upon  himself  the  severest  censure  of  not  only 
members  of  the  Provisional  Congress,  but  of  the  press  in  all  portions  of  the  Confed- 
eracy, and  he  was  glad  that  a Flag  had  been  adopted  so  dissimilar  to  the  old. 

Mr.  Holt  would  amend  the  resolution,  by  fixing  the  time  when  the  new  Flag  should 
become  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy  at  ninety  days  from  the  time  of  its  adoption  by 
Congress. 

Mr.  Boteler  said  that  there  was  now  in  use  a Battle  Flag  which  was  somewhat 
similar  to  this  recommended  by  the  committee,  and  the  substitution  would  occasion  no 
inconvenience. 

Mr.  Boyce,  of  South  Carolina,  hoped  that  further  consideration  of  the  matter 
would  be  postponed  for  the  present. 

Mr.  Conrad,  of  Louisiana,  was  not  all-pleased  with  the  Flag.  It  was  not  to  his 
eye  a beautiful  one,  nor  could  it  be  reversed  as  a signal  of  distress,  so  as  to  make  any 
distinct  appearance  of  reversion.  Every  Flag,  in  his  opinion,  ought  to  have  a union, 
as  it  is  called. 

Mr.  Miles  called  the  attention  of  the  gentleman  to  the  fact  that  most  of  the  mari- 
time nations  had  no  union. 

Mr.  Chilton  said  that  any  Flag  which  should  be  adopted  as  the  Flag  of  his  country 
would  be  beautiful  in  his  eyes  ; but  he  wanted  a Flag  to  be  an  honor  to  us  on  sea  and 
land,  now  that  we  had  gotten  rid  of  the  old  gridiron. 

The  House  refused  to  postpone,  by  a vote  of  30  yeas,  31  nays. 

Mr.  Swan  moved  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  House  refused  to  postpone. 

Mr.  Ralls  thought  it  would  be  illiberal  to  force  this  matter  on  the  House  at  this 
time. 

Mr.  McRae,  of  Mississippi,  hoped  that  the  House  would  reconsider  the  vote.  It 
was  very  evident  that  the  country  would  not  be  united  on  this  Flag,  because  the  repre- 
sentatives were  not  united.  For  his  part,  he  preferred  the  present  Battle  Flag;  there- 
fore he  hoped  the  matter  would  be  postponed. 

Mr.  Gardenhier,  of  Tennessee,  said  he  did  not  think  that  the  House  ought  to  adopt 
this  Flag  now.  He  would  like  the  committee  to  submit  some  of  the  many  designs  to 
the  House  which  had  been  submitted  to  them.  There  were  no  reasons  why  this  Flag 
should  ber adopted  immediately,  and  he  hoped  the  House  would  reconsider  the  vote. 

The  vote  was  reconsidered,  and  the  subject  postponed — yeas,  39 ; nays,  21. 

# -K-  * ■X'  ^ 


42  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  April  21, 1862.] 

The  New  Flag. 

The  country  is  indebted  to  the  enterprise  of  the  Examiner  for  a representation  of 
the  new  Confederate  Flag.  [See  Plate  III,  Part  I.]  A red  field  is  bestraddled  with 
a long-legged  white  cross,  in  the  centre  of  which  (the  cross)  there  is  a blue  Norman 
shield,  and  in  the  centre  of  that  again  a Lord  Ross’s  telescope  may  discover  a star  of 
the  fifth  magnitude,  which  is  intended  to  represent  a sun.  Our  generous  neighbor,  in 
patronizing  the  arts,  has  been  unable  to  find  an  Albrecht  Durer ; for  the  best  engraver 
in  the  Confederacy  has  given  us  a sun  so  lamentably  eclipsed  that  Phoebus  himself 
could  not  recognize  it. 

What  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal  were  thinking  about  when  they  selected 
the  sun  as  a Confederate  emblem,  passes  conjecture.  If  McClellan  had  been  at  Rock- 
etts with  a half  million  of  Yankees  at  his  heels,  he  could  not  have  seared  the  committee 
into  a more  objectionable  selection.  Human  ingenuity  could  not  have  devised  anything 
more  inappropriate.  The  sun  is  the  type  par  excellence  of  centralization  ; yet  the  com- 
mittee not  only  chose  the  sun  to  represent  the  Government  as  the  central  source  of  power 
in  the  Confederacy,  but  they  elevated  themselves  to  a misconception  which  would  have 
seemed  inaccessible  to  anybody  but  a Yankee  or  a Russian.  Refusing  to  represent  the 
States  as  planets  revolving  obediently  around  the  central  luminary,  they  have  actually 
made  thirteen  rays  emanating  immediately  from  the  sun  itself,  as  if  to  intimate  that  the 
sovereignties  of  which  this  Confederacy  is  composed  have  no  existence  whatever  apart 
from  the  agency  at  Richmond.  The  annals  of  the  world  will  be  searched  in  vain  for 
a parallel  to  this  perverse  misrepresentation  of  the  theory  and  structure  of  our  Govern- 
ment, as  indicated  in  the  symbolic  Flag  of  the  associated  nations  which  constitute  it, 
lend  it  certain  powers,  withdrawable  at  will,  with  or  without  cause — a Government 
which  has,  in  fact,  only  a borrowed  existence. 

As  a matter  of  taste  and  of  common  sense,  we  hope  yet  to  see  a beautiful  and  appro- 
priate Flag  for  the  Agency.  As  Virginians,  as  citizens  of  a separate,  distinct,  inde- 
pendent nation — a Republic  complete  in  itself  and  all  its  parts — we  have  a Flag  with 
which  we  are  quite  content.  We  presume  the  same  is  the  case  with  the  citizens  of  the 
Republics  of  North  and  South  Carolina,  and  all  the  other  nations  with  which  the  Republic 
of  Virginia  has  entered  into  copartnership.  They  also,  we  doubt  not,  will  scout  the  absurd 
symbol  which  misinterprets,  and,  in  fact,  obliterates,  the  whole  theory  of  State  rights — a 
theory  which  is  the  foundation  stone  of  the  Confederacy,  and  for  the  maintenance  of  which 
we  have  parted  with  the  Yankees  and  endured  all  the  hardships  of  the  tremendous  war  < 
which  we  are  now  waging.  Let  the  absurd  sun,  with  its  thirteen  rays,  be  pitched  into 
the  fire,  and  let  the  committee  study  the  rudiments  of  State  rights,  and  begin  again. 

[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  April  22, 1862.] 

Our  Flag. 

As  Congress  has  not  yet  taken  final  action  on  the  subject  of  the  Confederate  Flag, 
we  make  room  for  the  following  suggestion  : 

Yorkvilt.e,  April  19. 

Editor  Mercury  : A suggestion,  if  not  too  late.  A committee  of  sage  Congress- 
men spend  weeks  devising  a Flag  for  the  Southern  Confederacy,  and  when  produced 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  43 

there  is  little  doubt  that  it  will  be  neither  emblematic  nor  tasteful.  Why  not  place  this 
matter  in  the  hands  of  the  women  of  the  South?  Their  ingenious  heads  and  true 
hearts  will  devise  a Flag  original,  emblematical,  and  tasteful,  under  the  folds  of  which 
any  Southern  man  will  fight  with  enthusiasm. 

OLD  YORK. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Tri-weekly  Mercury,  April  22, 1S62.] 

Richmond  News  and  Gossip. 

***** 

It  would  seem  that  the  talent  of  the  country,  or  the  taste  of  Congress,  is  quite  in 
fault  in  regard  to  the  Confederate  Flag.  The  badly  botched  engraving  of  the  new  Flag, 
as  given  in  this  morning’s  Examiner,  represents  a rare  abortion  of  shields,  crosses, 
triangles,  and  an  eclipsed  sun.  The  adoption  of  this  concoction  would  be  a grave 
mistake,  if  for  no  other  reason  than  that  the  sun  is  the  type  of  centralization.  We  need 
a new  Flag,  it  is  true,  but  we  had  better  wait  five  years  before  making  a definite  selection 
than  present  to  the  world  the  concatenation  which  I have  described. 

* * * * * 

“HERMES.” 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  May  3,  1862.] 

A critic  says  that  the  Flag  proposed  by  the  joint  committee  of  Congress,  as  repre- 
sented in  the  newspaper  cuts,  is  suggestive  of  the  pirate’s  flag — bones  a la  saltier  and 
skull  in  centre. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  June  30, 1862.] 

Freedom’s  New  Banner. 

BY  DAN.  E.  TOWNSEND. 

When  clouds  of  oppression  o’ershaded 
The  Banner  that  Liberty  bore, 

Bright  stars  from  the  galaxy  faded, 

The  day  of  its  splendor  was  o’er. 

Those  stars  in  a fresh  constellation 
A sky  in  the  South  now  adorn, 

And  blazon  throughout  all  creation 
That  Freedom’s  new  Banner  is  born 

For  the  land  that’s  richest  in  beauty, 

The  homestead  of  justice  and  right, 

Whose  sons  are  the  foremost  in  duty, 

Whose  daughters  are  peerless  and  bright ; 

For  brave  hearts  in  battle  defending 
The  honor  and  truth  of  our  cause ; 

For  our  trust  in  victorious  ending, 

The  welkin  rings  out  its  huzzas. 

Our  lives  and  our  fortunes  enlisted, 

Our  honor,  our  hopes,  and  our  prayers, 

Upholding  the  act  that  resisted 
The  wrongs  of  a series  of  years. 

May  the  Father  in  heaven  approve  us 
In  this  the  most  sacred  of  wars ; 

May  His  hand  to  protect  be  above  us. 

While  cheering  the  Stars  and  the  Bars. 


44  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — ELAG  AND  SEAL. 


[From  the  Montgomery  (Ala.)  Advertiser,  July  — , 1862.] 
The  Stars  and  the  Bars. 

BY  JOHN  BLACK  (F.UFAULA,  ALA.). 

Above  us  our  Banner  is  waving, 

The  hope  of  the  brave  and  the  free; 

We  must  watch,  must  guard,  and  defend  it, 

’Till  the  minions  of  tyranny  flee. 

With  swords  and  good  rifles  we’ll  meet  them, 

On  the  hill,  the  vale,  and  the  plain, 

And  though  they  may  come  like  the  locusts, 

We’ll  fatten  our  land  with  their  slain. 

Then  shout  for  the  Stars  and  the  Bars  ! 

Three  cheers  for  the  Bars  and  the  Stars ! 

A nation  has  sworn  to  defend  them, 

They’ll  die  for  the  Stars  and  the  Bars. 

Brave  sons  of  the  South  are  now  ready, 

Each  bosom  is  burning  to  save 

Our  land  of  bright  sunshine  and  flowers 
From  the  tread  of  the  Northern  slave  ; 

And  mothers,  though  bending  in  anguish, 

Thus  nobly  cry  out  to  their  sons  : 

“ Go,  meet  the  invader  with  firmness, 

And  true  be  the  aim  of  your  guns.” 

Then  shout,  &c. 

Far  better  to  live  in  a desert, 

The  blue  sky  ©ur  canopy,  too, 

Than  wearing  the  chains  of  these  demons, 

The  selfish,  fanatical  crew. 

Far  better  to  perish  with  honor, 

Far  better  to  go  to  the  grave, 

And  better  to  die  as  a freeman 
Than  live  as  a Northerner’s  slave. 

Then  shout,  &c. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  August  1, 1862.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

As  Congress  will  shortly  reassemble,  we  suggest  that  the  editors  of  the  Southern 
press  give  some  expression  of  public  opinion  in  respect  to  the  new  National  Flag 
recommended  by  a joint  committee  for  the  adoption  of  Congress.  Let  us  not  have  a 
National  Ensign  which  will  fail  to  meet  with  popular  favor.  We  do  not  say  that  the 
design  proposed  by  the  committee  will  prove  unpopular,  nor  do  we  expect  a general 
approval  of  any  design  that  may  be  proposed,  but  intelligent  criticism  may  avert  the 
adoption  of  inappropriate  features,  and  contribute,  perhaps,  to  the  perfection  of  the 
design  for  our  country’s  Flag.  The  following  expressions  of  opinion  on  the  subject — 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  45 

the  only  two  which  we  found  in  our  exchanges — were  laid  aside  for  publication  several 
weeks  ago,  with  the  expectation  that  others  would  follow  : 

“The  design  for  a Confederate  Flag,  recently  adopted  by  the  Committee  on  Flag 
and  Seal  in  Congress,  we  are  compelled,  in  all  candor,  to  say,  does  the  gentlemen  who 
compose  that  committee  very  little  credit,  either  for  originality,  taste,  or  fitness.  As 
for  the  colors  employed — the  red,  white,  and  blue — we  suppose  they  are  too  deeply 
engraven  on  the  hearts  and  minds  of  some  officials  to  be  eradicated,  and  it  is  therefore 
useless  to  think  of  the  adoption  of  any  other  combination  of  colors.  It  may  be  said 
that  those  colors  are  employed  in  some  shape  or  other  in  the  Flag  of  many  of  the 
nations  of  Europe,  and  that  the  retention  of  them  by  the  committee  is  no  evidence  that 
the  members  were  not  anxious  to  adopt  something  as  unlike  the  emblem  of  the  Northern 
despotism  as  possible.  This  may  be  true,  but  the  people,  we  believe,  would  rejoice 
to  have  a Confederate  Banner  on  which  there  was  absolutely  nothing  to  remind  them 
of  their  detested  foeman  of  the  North. 

“ The  committee  interpret  the  Flag  as  follows : ‘The  red  field  denotes  martial 
prowess,  boldness,  courage,  valor.  The  saltier  (an  honorable  ordinary  in  heraldry)  is 
the  emblem  of  progress  and  strength — its  white  indicating  purity,  innocence,  and  gen- 
tleness. The  blue  of  the  shield  represents  justice,  faith,  perseverance,  and  vigilance. 
The  sun  manifests  the  dominion,  generosity,  and  stability  of  the  Confederacy.’  The 
considerations  which  influenced  its  adoption  were  its  want  of  resemblance  to  the  Flag 
of  any  other  nation ; the  distinctness  of  its  colors,  rendering  it  discernible  at  a dis- 
tance ; its  simplicity,  and  consequent  facility  of  fabrication  for  an  emergency ; its 
conformity  to  the  proprieties  of  heraldry,  and  its  symbolization  of  the  characteristics 
of  a free  and  prosperous  people.  We  think  the  committee  are  correct  as  to  the  want 
of  resemblance  of  their  model  to  the  Flag  of  any  other  nation  ; but  as  for  its  simplicity, 
we  think  the  less  said  about  it  the  better.  The  field,  saltier,  and  shield  might  be  made 
with  very  little  trouble,  but  the  novice  in  the  construction  of  Flags  would  find  it  a 
somewhat  difficult  matter  to  make  a creditable  sun  to  adorn  the  shield.  We  are  glad 
the  committee  were  sensible  enough  to  leave  off  the  stars,  but  we  are  wholly  unable  to 
see  any  propriety  in  the  adoption  of  the  sun  instead.  The  sun  is  par  excellence  the 
symbol  of  centralization,  and  will,  if  placed  upon  our  Banner,  convey  to  the  mind  of 
the  beholder  the  very  idea  which  we  wish  most  to  avoid.  Instead  of  an  emblem  indi- 
_ eating  that  the  Confederate  Government  is  the  source  and  the  centre  of  all  power,  we 
should  have  one  more  nearly  approaching  the  truth,  representing  the  several  States  as 
the  source  from  which  the  Confederate  Government  derives  all  of  its  powers  and 
functions. 

“ Congress  adjourned,  we  believe,  without  taking  any  action  on  the  report  of  the 
committee,  and  before  that  body  meets  again  to  legislate  on  the  subject  we  hope  some 
one  will  devise  a Flag  eminently  appropriate  for  the  country.  In  the  meantime,  let 
our  generals  agree  upon  some  Battle  Flag  which  can  be  used  on  all  occasions,  and  in 
such  an  event  it  is  not  impossible  that  the  Banner  thus  adopted  will  become  so  endeared 
to  the  people  by  the  baptism  of  blood  through  which  it  will  be  compelled  to  pass,  that 
by  common  consent  it  will  be  adopted  as  the  National  Flag.” — Montgomery  (Ala.) 
Advertiser. 


46  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

“The  new  Ensign  is  certainly  rich,  brilliant,  and  easily  distinguishable.  The  sun 
has  been  very  frequently  urged  as  the  proper  emblem  for  the  South,  and  the  rays,  which 
are  to  be  alternately  long  and  short,  will  suffice  to  represent  the  separate  sovereignty  of 
the  States.  Many  would  have  preferred  a more  simple  arrangement,  to  consist  of  two 
colors  only;  but,  inasmuch  as  the  committee’s  device  in  nowise  resembles  the  Flag  of 
the  Yankees,  we  suppose  that  it  will  be  generally  well  relished  by  the  people.  The 
new  Flag,  however,  has  yet  to  receive  the  sanction  of  Congress,  and  may  be  rejected 
altogether  by  that  body.” — Charleston  ( S . C.)  Mercni'y. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Whig,  August  28, 1862.] 

To  the  Committee  of  Congress  on  the  Confederate  Flag  : 

I respectfully  submit  for  your  selection  two  designs  for  our  Confederate  Flag,  each 
of  which  is  studded  over  with  stars  to  represent  the  true  “ Star  Spangled  Banner”  of 
the  glorious  old  ballad  composed  by  that  whole-souled  Southerner  and  slaveholder, 
Francis  S.  Key,  whose  utter  contempt  of  the  Yankee  character  was  so  admirably 
expressed  in  his  terse  definition  of  the  genus  Yankee  as  being  “ in  commerce  a cheat — 
in  politics  a snake — in  religion  a hypocrite.”  To  allow  the  swindling  Yankees  to  filch 
from  us  this  grand  Southern  ballad,  and  its  appropriate  Flag,  would  amount  to  a dere- 
liction of  duty  to  the  noble  dead.  The  indignant  spirit  of  the  departed  author  would 
rise  up  to  protest  against  the  sacrilege.  I therefore  implore  you  to  rescue  from  the 
unhallowed  grasp  of  the  Yankees  these  long-cherished  stanzas  by  adopting  some 
Standard  to  whose  folds  they  may  be  appropriately  applied.  The  South  should  never 
allow  the  Yankees  to  usurp  either  that  ballad  or  its  corresponding  Banner.  The  Flag 
of  the  Yankee  is  most  properly  the  despotic  Flag  of  the  stripes,  whilst  that  of  the  South 
is  the  Banner  of  the  stars. 

“ When  clouds  of  oppression  o’ershaded 
The  Banner  that  Liberty  bore, 

The  stars  from  its  galaxy  faded, 

The  day  of  its  splendor  was  o’er. 

Those  stars  in  a new  constellation 
The  sky  of  the  South  now  adorn, 

And  proclaim  to  each  civilized  nation 
That  Freedom’s  true  Banner  is  born.” 

Then,  indeed,  may  be  sounded,  in  truth  and  sincerity,  that  noble  refrain — 

“ The  Star  Spangled  Banner  in  triumph  shall  wave 
O’er  the  land  of  the  free  and  the  home  of  the  brave.” 

In  the  first  design  presented,  the  field  is  blue,  with  a diagonal  cross  of  stars  equal 
in  number  to  the  Confederate  States ; the  union  is  red,  with  a circle  of  stars,  also  equal 
in  number  to  our  Confederate  States.  In  the  second  design,  the  field  is  red,  with  a 
simple  (or  straight)  cross  of  stars  conforming  in  number  to  the  Confederate  States ; 
the  diagonal  cross  is  blue,  studded  with  stars,  also  equal  in  number  to  our  States. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

LEWIS  CRUGER,  of  S.  C. 

[See  Plates  XXV,  XXVI.] 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  47 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  September  25, 1862.] 

The  Senate  yesterday  passed  a bill  furnishing  the  Confederacy  with  a Seal,  or  Coat 
of  Arms:  “In  the  foreground,  a Confederate  soldier,  in  the  position  of  ‘charge  bayo- 
net;’ in  the  middle  distance,  a woman  with  a child  in  front  of  a church,  both  with 
hands  uplifted  in  the  attitude  of  prayer;  for  a background,  a homestead  on  the  plain, 
with  mountains  in  the  distance,  beneath  the  meridian  sun  ; the  whole  surrounded  by  a 
wreath  composed  of  the  stalks  of  the  sugar-cane,  the  rice,  the  cotton,  and  the  tobacco 
plants ; the  margin  inscribed  with  the  words,  1 Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of 
America’  above,  and  1 Our  Homes  and  Our  Constitution  ’ beneath.” 

Pray,  did  the  Senate  fancy  it  was  manufacturing  a vignette  for  a counterfeit  bank- 
note while  sketching  this  extraordinary  landscape  on  the  National  Shield?  Is  this  all 
that  taste  and  common  sense  can  do  for  the  Southern  Confederacy?  The  bill  is  still  to 
pass  the  House  of  Representatives,  and  therefore  it  is  well  to  say  plainly  and  at  once, 
that  if  we  are  to  make  our  appearance  among  nations  with  this  Yankee  Doodle  appa- 
ratus for  a Seal,  we  shall  be  very  much  ridiculed.  It  is  said  that  the  Government  needs 
a Seal  for  business.  That  is  easily  understood.  It  is  said  that  Congress  has  not  time 
to  waste  on  small  matters.  That  is  readily  admitted.  But  it  is  at  least  desirable  that 
Congress  should  not  render  it  and  the  country  the  laughing-stock  of  the  whole  official 
world.  That  body  can  make  itself  a Seal  in  half  an  hour  which  will  satisfy  both  taste 
and  common  sense,  beyond  a peradventure,  if  it  will  only  go  to  work  on  the  simple 
plan  followed  by  every  nation  on  similar  occasions  since  the  tribes  of  Israel  were 
endowed  by  Moses  with  their  several  Coats  of  Arms.  It  is,  to  choose  from  the  vege- 
table or  animal  kingdom  some  single  noble  object,  and  declare  it  to  be  the  emblem  of 
their  nation.  Whatever  it  may  be,  the  affections  of  the  nation  will  soon  cluster  around 
it  by  the  force  of  association,  which  they  can  never  do  over  an  absurd  allegorical  pic- 
ture of  many  figures.  France  has  the  eagle,  England  a lion,  the  United  States  a firma- 
ment ; but  an  abundance  of  types  remain  equally  suggestive  of  force,  dignity,  or 
courage.  A lofty  pine  would  do  ; a strong  oak  would  be  better ; a horse  would  be  noble, 
and  a bull  lowering  his  horns  would  be  popular  in  the  extreme.  At  least  let  us  have 
some  one  thing  easily  expressed,  comprehended,  and  described,  when  our  object  is  to 
get  a distinctive  mark  of  our  official  and  national  existence. 

The  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States. 

Senate,  September  24,  1862. 

* * * * * 

Mr.  Semmes,  of  Louisiana,  from  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  reported 
the  following  bill : 

AN  ACT  establishing  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America. 

The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact,  That  the  device  on 
the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  shall  be : In  the  foreground,  a Confederate  soldier, 
in  the  position  of  “ charge  bayonets ; ” in  the  middle  distance,  a woman  with  a child 
by  her  side  in  front  of  a church,  both  with  hands  uplifted  in  the  attitude  of  prayer ; 
for  a background,  a homestead  on  the  plain,  with  mountains  in  the  distance,  beneath 


48  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

the  meridian  sun  ; the  whole  surrounded  by  a wreath  composed  of  the  stalk  of  the 
sugar-cane,  the  rice,  the  cotton  and  tobacco  plants ; the  margin  inscribed  with  the 
words  “Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America”  above,  and  the  motto  “Our 
Homes  and  our  Constitution  ” beneath. 

The  bill  was  passed. 

It  was  moved  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  bill  was  adopted. 

Mr.  Semmes  explained  the  motives  which  had  induced  the  committee  to  adopt  this 
device  in  preference  to  one  borrowed  from  poetical  or  Roman  history.  The  history  of 
this  revolution  was  of  sufficient  dignity  to  originate  symbols.  By  the  bayonets  of  the 
Confederate  soldier  would  our  liberties  be  achieved  ; woman  had  acted  a more  prom- 
inent part  in  this  than  in  any  previous  struggle  for  liberty,  and  to  the  prayers  of  the 
righteous  to  the  Almighty  should  our  success  be  attributed.  We  were  the  people  of 
the  South,  the  children  of  the  sun.  The  wreath  was  composed  of  the  plants  which 
constituted  our  peculiar  staples.  The  English  motto  had  been  adopted  in  preference 
to  a Latin  one  because  the  Anglo-Saxon  was  alone  the  language  of  Liberty. 

Mr.  Yancey  approved  of  the  Seal  in  general,  but  would  make  some  suggestions. 
He  thought  it  fit  that  woman  should  have  a conspicuous  position  on  the  Seal,  but  hoped 
her  attitude  would  be  improved.  As  now  represented,  she  seemed  flying,  with  hair 
disheveled,  from  an  enemy  who  had  got  behind  her  husband,  the  man  with  the  bayonet. 
He  also  suggested  that  other  plants  than  those  selected  by  the  committee  might  have 
been  found  more  expressive  of  the  character  of  our  staples.  Mr.  Yancey  would  also 
have  preferred  some  other  word  in  the  motto  to  the  word  “ Constitution” — Liberties, 
for  instance. 

Mr.  Clay  moved  to  amend,  by  substituting  the  word  “ Rights  ” for  “ Constitution.” 

Mr.  Preston  hoped  the  amendment  would  not  prevail.  The  word  “Rights”  was 
indefinite  and  uncertain  in  its  signification. 

Mr.  Semmes  would  add  that  this  was  eminently  a constitutional  revolution,  and 
therefore  the  word  “ Constitution  ” should  appear  on  the  Seal  of  the  Confederacy.  It 
would  symbolize  to  posterity  the  principle  which  actuated  us  in  this  revolution.  We 
are  warring  for  our  constitutional  liberty.  The  revolution  was  brought  on  by  an  inva- 
sion of  the  constitutional  liberties  of  the  States.  The  private  rights  of  individuals  in 
the  States  had  not  been  invaded. 

Mr.  Clay  was  not  tenacious  of  his  opinion,  but  still  preferred  the  word  “ Rights.” 

Mr.  Brown,  of  Mississippi,  thought  the  Senate  was  wasting  precious  time.  Our 
Army  was  wasting  away  like  snow  before  an  August  sun,  while  the  Senate  was  throwing 
away  a whole  day  discussing  the  question  of  a Seal. 

Mr.  Semmes  : Is  the  gentleman  aware  that  the  Senate  passed  the  conscription  bill  ? 

Mr.  Brown  : Well,  where  is  your  committee  of  conference? 

Mr.  Semmes:  The  bill  was  passed  by  the  Senate,  and  sent  down  to  the  House.  It 
has  not  been  sent  back.  I will  state,  as  the  gentleman  seems  to  think  the  adoption  of 
the  Seal  a matter  of  so  little  consequence,  that  the  Secretary  of  War  has  represented 
to  the  committee  the  necessity  of  having  a Seal.  I will  not  state  for  what  purpose. 

Mr.  Brown  : We  have  got  along  very  well,  so  far,  without  a Seal.  Let  us  first  get 
through  with  the  war,  and  then  adopt  a Seal.  - For  my  part,  I don’t  care  a sixpence 
whether  we  have  a Seal  or  not. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  49 


Mr.  Wigfall  objected  to  the  whole  Seal.  He  had  seen  a very  good  one — a Roman 
soldier  standing  by  an  altar  of  Liberty.  Under  the  committee’s  Seal  it  would  be  neces- 
sary to  write  its  description,  as  the  bad  painter  wrote  under  his  picture,  “This  is  a 
horse.”  There  was  a woman  who  looked  as  if  she  had  just  escaped  from  bedlam, 
while  a little  boy  was  standing  looking  at  her  carryings-on  in  evident  bewilderment. 
[Some  laughter.]  Neither  woman  nor  child  had  any  hats  on  ; and  as  the  sun  was 
shining,  they  must  be  very  uncomfortable.  There  was  a two-story  building,  but 
whether  it  was  a church  or  a market-house  there  was  nothing  to  indicate. 

Mr.  Preston  was  sorry  the  gentleman  objected  to  the  Seal.  But  suppose  we  glance 
at  some  objections  that  may  be  urged  to  the  Seal  which  suited  the  gentleman’s  fancy — 
the  Roman  soldier  standing  by  the  altar  of  Liberty,  with  a wreath  of  the  cotton-plant 
above.  What  would  one  of  the  brave  soldiers  from  the  gentleman’s  own  State  say  to 
this  Seal?  “What  is  that  fellow  doing  standing  there  with  that  iron  pot  [helmet]  on 
his  head?  What’s  that  [the  short,  two-edged  Roman  sword]  he  has  in  his  hand — -an 
Arkansas  toothpick?  [Considerable  laughter.]  What  is  that  written  at  the  bottom — 
Pro  focis  et  arisV ’ But  subject  the  same  to  the  man  of  classic  learning,  and  he  will 
object  to  the  anachronism  of  having  a wreath  of  the  cotton-plant  around  a Roman  sol- 
dier's head.  The  scholar  would  immediately  point  you  to  the  absurdity  of  having  upon 
the  same  Seal  with  the  Roman  soldier  the  cotton-plant,  which  bad  not  been  brought  into 
use  for  seven  hundred  years  after  the  former  had  disappeared  from  the  earth. 

After  some  further  remarks  by  Messrs.  Preston  and  Wigfall,  the  question  was  called, 
and  the  Senate  refused  to  reconsider  the  vote  by  which  the  bill  had  been  adopted.  By 
unanimous  consent,  the  bill  was  then  immediately  sent  to  the  House. 

[See  Plates  IV,  Y,  Part  I.] 

[From  the  Southern  Illustrated  News,  September  27, 1S62.] 

Flags  and  Trophies — Their  Iuterest  and  Significance. 
***** 

And  it  is  an  honest  pride,  a generous  joy,  altogether  distinct  from  empty  vainglory 
or  unworthy  exultation  over  a fallen  foe.  What,  after  all,  is  a Flag?  Considered  as  a 
work  of  art — as  a combination  of  stuffs  and  colors  to  please  the  eye — the  costliest 
Standard,  with  its  embroideries  and  mountings  of  gold,  is  but  a childish  bauble,  of  no 
more  worth  than  the  gaudy  heraldic  bearings  of  feudalism  : but,  as  the  symbol  of  a 
sentiment,  the  token  of  a great  principle,  the  meanest  Flag  that  ever  was  hung  from  a 
hickory  pole  becomes  a holy  thing  for  which  men  will  lay  down  their  lives.  There  is 
but  little  (we  think  much  too  little)  difference,  in  the  outward  appearance,  between  the 
Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  and  the  old  “Stars  and  Stripes”  of  the  Federal  Union. 
To  change  the  “ Stars  and  Stripes”  into  the  “ Stars  and  Bars”  is  an  easy  matter — a 
few  minutes’  work  with  the  sewing-machine.  You  have  only  to  obliterate  a certain 
number  of  the  stars,  and  to  gather  the  white  stripes  in  the  middle  of  the  field  ; but  to 
substitute  the  one  for  the  other,  what  sacrifices  have  we  not  been  called  upon  to  endure — ■ 
what  an  immense  price  in  human  life  and  human  suffering  have  we  not  been  compelled 
to  pay?  And  how  differently  do  we  not  regard,  henceforth  and  forever,  the  two  Ban- 
ners? The  one  is  the  emblem  of  honor  and  hope — the  other  the  badge  of  servitude 


50  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

and  degradation  ; we  hail  the  one  as  the  inspiration  of  victory  and  the  pledge  of  free- 
dom— the  other  we  reject  with  loathing  as  the  disgraced  Ensign  of  a vulgar  tyranny. 

There  is  a great  propriety  in  preserving  the  captured  Banners  of  a campaign,  and 
displaying  them  to  the  people  as  trophies  and  memorials,  not  so  much  of  the  national 
valor,  as  of  good  conduct  in  the  hour  of  trial.  Since  the  opening  of  the  present 
unhappy  war,  our  gallant  troops  have  taken  almost  as  many  colors  from  the  enemy  as 
were  taken  in  the  wars  of  the  Empire.  We  have  the  Flags  of  nearly  all  the  Yankee 
States,  decorated  with  their  motley  Coat  of  Arms,  and  bearing  their  ambitious  mottoes. 
The  “Excelsior”  Standard  of  New  York  ; the  “ E rise  petit  placidam''  of  Massachu- 
setts; the  Banner  of  Michigan,  over  which  so  much  fuss  was  made  at  Detroit;  the 
cavalry  guidons  of  the  Vermont  marauders,  besides  numberless  copies,  large  and  small, 
in  silk,  in  bunting,  in  flannel,  of  the  “blessed  Flag” — all  these  are  here — the  trophies 
of  Bethel,  Manassas,  Shiloh,  Kernstown,  the  Seven  Pines,  White  Oak  Swamp,  of  fifty 
or  more  victories  over  the  Yankee  generals.  Why  should  they  not  be  gathered  together 
and  displayed  to  the  public  sight?  In  the  State  Library,  in  the  Capitol,  a few  colors 
presented  to  the  State,  by  special  permission  of  the  War  Department,  may  be  seen, 
but  the  rest  lie  piled  up  in  the  office  of  the  Adjutant  General  as  so  much  useless  lum- 
ber. Might  they  not  be  profitably  arranged  in  some  hall  or  room,  where  the  sight  of 
them  would  stimulate  the  soldier  to  yet  greater  efforts  in  his  country’s  cause? 

We  would  not  have  our  Government  manifest  any  unseemly  bravado  in  parading 
the  Flags  of  the  foe,  as  did  the  Yankee  Congress  in  shouting  over  the  exhibition  of  the 
Confederate  colors  taken  at  Hatteras  and  Donelson  ; but  surely  there  is  a becoming  as 
well  as  an  improper  manner  of  disposing  of  such  trophies,  so  that  the  patriotism  of 
our  people  would  be  healthfully  excited  by  them. 

In  making  such  an  arrangement  for  their  preservation,  we  should  also  have  care 
for  our  own  Flags  which  have  waved  over  scenes  of  carnage  and  glory.  At  Drury’s 
Bluff  may  still  be  seen  flying  from  the  color-staff  of  the  post  the  little  Confederate  Flag 
which  flaunted  in  the  face  of  the  Yankee  fleet  upon  the  memorable  day  of  May,  1862, 
when,  with  the  strongest  of  their  iron-clad  ships,  the  enemy  endeavored  to  ascend  the 
river  to  Richmond.  It  is  blackened  with  the  smoke  of  the  conflict,  and  bears  the 
marks  of  having  been  penetrated  by  two  round  shot  from  the  Yankee  guns,  and  is 
already  fraying  out  with  exposure  to  the  weather.  Let  this  memorial  be  preserved  ; it 
is  associated  with  the  heroic  defense  of  our  capital,  with  the  defeat  of  the  enemy  upon 
the  water,  with  the  martyrdom  of  brave  men.  In  after  times,  when  the  new  Capitol  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  have  arisen  in  all  the  majesty  of  its  proportions,  this  little 
piece  of  bunting  should  be  hung  out  on  gala  days,  from  the  topmost  stone,  as  a souvenir, 
not  the  least  touching  and  suggestive,  of  our  struggle  for  independence. 

[Courtesy  of  Capt.  J.  F.  Mayer,  Richmond,  Ya. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Enquirer,  October  1, 1862.] 

Flag  and  Seal. 

We  have  received  a neat  design  for  the  Confederate  Flag,  the  peculiarity  of  which 
consists  in  a circle  of  white  links  in  a blue  ground.  The  links  are  themselves  circles, 


and  interlock  so  as  to  make  a circle  ; their  number  is  equal  to  that  of  the  States.  Each 
link  being  complete,  symbolizes  the  State  sovereignty,  while  their  union  represents  the 
confederation.  [See  Plate  CLXXXIV,  Part  II.] 

The  questions  of  Flag  and  Seal,  like  all  others  of  taste,  excite  great  differences  of 
judgment.  In  reference  to  the  Seal,  we  agree  with  the  opinion  that  it  ought  to  be 
simple,  and  have  but  a single  central  figure.  There  has  been  a great  desire  to  use  the 
image  of  the  sun  in  some  way  on  our  Confederate  Ensigns,  as  symbolical  of  our  climate 
and  productions.  We  do  not  know  where  it  could  be  better  introduced  than  as  the 
central  figure  of  the  Confederate  Seal.  Its  form  would  suit  that  of  the  Seal,  while  it 
is  easy  of  artistic  execution.  It  would,  besides,  accommodate  various  partialities  better 
than  any  production,  whether  animal  or  vegetable,  that  should  be  confined  to  a portion 
of  the  States.  We  certainly  could  not  have  a nobler  emblem. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  October  1,  1862.] 

Seal  of  the  Confederate  States. 

Petersburg,  September  26,  1862. 

Editor  Examiner  : Permit  a citizen  to  make  a suggestion  with  respect  to  the 
appropriate  device  for  a Seal  for  the  Confederacy.  Your  suggestion  that  it  should  be 
a simple,  intelligible  emblem  is  the  dictate  of  such  obvious  consideration  of  propriety 
and  expediency  that  the  only  wonder  is  that  the  Senate  could  even  have  condescended 
to  examine  the  dramatic  tableau  that  seems  to  challenge  their  particular  admiration  as 
designs  for  the  National  Coat  of  Arms. 

1.  A Seal  should  be  simple. 

2.  It  should  have  one  noble  idea,  and  not  a congeries  of  sentiments. 

3.  It  should  be,  if  possible,  representative. 

4.  It  should  be  distinctive. 

Upon  these  requisites  all  National  Seals  or  insignia  are  based.  An  eagle,  a bee,  a 
bunch  of  lilies,  a lion,  a serpent,  a thistle — all  the  emblems  of  great  powers  fulfill 
these  conditions  more  or  less  fully.  Now  let  us  ask  what  American  object  can  be 
found  which  exemplifies  strength  and  courage,  the  “noble  idea”  of  a young  State, 
which  is  single  and  simple  in  itself,  which  is  representative  of  America,  which  is  unap- 
propriated by  any  nation  in  the  world,  and  which  is  liable  to  be  confounded  with  no 
other  national  emblem. 

To  my  apprehension,  no  one  thing  so  entirely  answers  all  these  conditions  as  the 
buffalo.  It  is  noble  in  form,  powerful  in  make,  is  American,  and  is  distinct  in  form 
from  any  other  animal,  therefore  liable  to  be  mistaken  for  none.  A simple  buffalo,  with 
threatening  head,  subscribed  with  the  single  word  “ Forward,”  or  some  legend  equally 
simple,  would  answer  every  demand  of  an  appropriate  national  emblem. 

Iv. 

[See  Plate  XXVII.] 


52  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


Editor  Examiner — Sir  : I liave  read  your  remarks  on  the  subject  of  a Seal  for  the 
Confederate  States  with  interest  and  approval.  Let  me  suggest,  through  your  columns, 
the  following  for  consideration  : 


A horse  fully  caparisoned,  with  the  figure  of  General  Washington,  either  standing 
beside  him,  as  in  Stuart's  great  picture,  or  bestriding  him,  as  may  be  thought  best,  with 
the  words  above  “Seal  of  the  Confederate  States,”  and  between  the  motto  “Justice, 
Mercy,  Truth.”  This  Seal  would  represent  the  highest  type  of  man  and  beast,  of  both 
of  which  we  claim  to  possess  in  the  Confederate  States  the  highest  development,  and 
of  which  (among  men)  General  Washington  was  the  noblest  specimen.  The  symbol  of 
the  Seal  is  power  and  usefulness  ruled  by  virtue  and  intelligence.  It  is  eminently 
proper  that  the  Southern  Confederacy  should  perpetuate  in  some  enduring  form  their 
reverence  for  and  claim  to  this  man,  the  greatest  and  best  of  her  sons  ; and  none  could 
be  more  appropriate  than  this,  by  which  she  would  stamp  his  image  on  her  national 
acts.  The  motto  expresses  the  highest  attributes  which  should  govern  a nation. 


[See  Plate  XXVIII.] 


SIGILLUM. 


[From  the  Charleston  (S.  C.)  Mercury,  October  7,  1862.] 

The  Confederate  Seal. 

It  is  said  to  be  absolutely  necessary  that  the  Departments  in  Richmond  should 
have,  without  delay,  a distinctive  Confederate  Seal,  and  Congress  and  the  newspapers 
are  all  agog  on  the  question  of  a design.  A fortnight  ago  one  of  the  Houses  of  Con- 
gress adopted  a very  elaborate  and  fanciful  picture  as  the  Coat  of  Arms  of  the  South  ; 
but  so  prompt  and  general  was  the  verdict  of  popular  disapproval,  that  the  Seal,  like 
the  Flag  which  Congress  devised  last  spring,  is  now  almost  forgotten.  Meantime,  the 
newspapers  have  been  agitating  the  subject  of  the  Seal,  and  several  very  tasteful  and 
appropriate  suggestions  have  been  elicited.  A correspondent  of  the  Richmond  Exam- 
iner lays  down  the  following  as  the  principles  which  should  guide  us  in  the  choice  of  a 
device:  1.  A Seal  should  be  simple.  2.  It  should  have  one  noble  idea,  and  not  a 
congeries  of  sentiments.  3.  It  should  be,  if  possible,  representative.  4.  It  should  be 
distinctive. 

These  principles  would  certainly  seem  to  be  founded  on  the  most  obvious  consid- 
erations of  good  taste  and  expediency,  and  their  propriety  is  generally  admitted. 
Among  the  devices  suggested  which  accord  more  or  less  closely  with  these  conditions, 
we  notice  the  magnolia,  the  plow,  the  sun,  and  others  ; but  decidedly  the  most 
unique  emblem  that  we  have  seen  is  that  proposed  by  the  Examiner' s correspondent, 
as  the  perfect  embodiment  of  the  requisites  for  the  Seal  of  the  Confederacy.  We  quote 
the  conclusion  of  his  communication  : 

“Now  let  us  ask  what  American  object  can  be  found  which  exemplifies  strength 
and  courage,  the  ‘noble  idea’  of  a young  State,  which  is  single  and  simple  in  itself, 
which  is  representative  of  America,  which  is  unappropriated  by  any  nation  in  the 
world,  and  which  is  liable  to  be  confounded  with  no  other  national  emblem.  To  my 
apprehension,  no  one  thing  so  entirely  answers  all  these  conditions  as  the  buffalo.  It 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  53 


is  noble  in  form,  powerful  in  make,  is  American,  and  is  distinct  in  form  from  any  other 
animal,  therefore  liable  to  be  mistaken  for  none.  A simple  buffalo,  with  threatening 
head,  subscribed  with  the  single  word  £ Forward,’  or  some  legend  equally  simple,  would 
answer  every  demand  of  an  appropriate  national  emblem.” 

[Courtesy  of  Mrs.  W.  E.  Moore,  Helena,  Ark. — R.  P.  T.J 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  October  8, 1862.] 

The  Confederate  Seal. 

A correspondent  of  the  Columbia  (S.  C.)  Guardian  (“  R.  W.  B.”)  recommends 
the  adoption  of  the  plow  as  the  emblem  for  the  Confederate  States,  for  the  following 
reasons : 

1.  It  is  eminently  characteristic  of  our  Southern  States,  where  tobacco,  wheat, 
rice,  sugar,  and  cotton — the  great  world  staples — are  chiefly  produced. 

2.  It  is  simple  ; its  form,  however  varied,  is  everywhere  at  once  recognized,  and  is 
everywhere  suggestive  of  the  same  ideas. 

3.  It  is  emblematical  of  peace,  civilization,  and  prosperity. 

4.  It  is  everywhere  held  in  honor. 

5.  It  has  the  advantage  over  cotton-bales,  cotton-stalks,  rice-sheaves  or  barrels, 
sugar-cane  and  the  like,  because  the  forms  of  these  are  not  everywhere  familiar  or 
uniform,  nor  are  they  sufficiently  distinct  from  other  plants.  Besides,  all  the  States  are 
not  cotton,  rice,  or  sugar-growing  States. 

0.  It  has  the  advantage  over  the  rose  (England),  the  lily  (France),  the  thistle 
(Scotland),  or  any  of  the  vegetable  kingdom,  inasmuch  as  it  is  the  emblem  of  industry 
and  utility. 

7.  It  is  better  than  the  eagle  or  birds  of  prey,  inasmuch  as  honest  acquisition  is 
better  than  rapacious  conquests. 

8.  It  is  better  than  an  ox,  or  horse,  or  any  of  the  animal  tribe,  as  it  is  indicative  of 
human  invention  and  enterprise,  of  moral  rather  than  brute  force. 

9.  Nor  is  its  peaceful  significance  incompatible  with  national  hardihood  and  mili- 
tary strength,  for  its  construction  is  of  iron,  and  the  “ plowshare  ” is  readily  “ beaten 
into  the  sword.” 

10.  It  is  scriptural,  antique,  classic,  and  modern  in  its  associations.  Reminding 
us  of  the  primeval  curse,  it  is  associated  with  man’s  best  efforts  to  ameliorate  his  con- 
dition, and  to  lessen  the  sweat  of  his  brow.  It  carries  us  back  to  the  days  of  Cincin- 
natus  and  the  stern  virtues  of  the  Roman  republic.  It  will  embalm  for  future  genera- 
tions the  striking  feature  of  this  war — •“  for  homes  and  firesides” — where  our  armies 
have  been  mainly  composed  of  farmers  ; and  the  plow  has  furnished  the  Confederacy 
with  its  best  soldiers. 

For  a motto,  I would  suggest  the  well-known  words,  familiar  to  every  nation, 
“ Gratia  Dei ” (‘‘Through  the  blessing  of  God — by  the  grace  of  God  ”). 

1.  It  is  peculiarly  true  of  the  labors  of  the  plow  that  they  depend  upon  God’s 
gifts — His  rain,  and  sunshine,  and  genial  seasons. 


54  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


2.  It  is  strikingly  characterestic  of  this  struggle  that  we  based  it  upon  the  Divine 
succor,  and  ever  repose  our  hopes  of  success  there. 

3.  The  phrase  has  been  used  by  most  of  our  generals  in  announcing  their  victories  ; 
and  it  conveys  a delicate  allusion  to  the  stereotype  form  in  which  our  most  successful 
general,  Jackson,  heralds  his  successes. 

4.  It  is  already  associated  with  national  formulas  in  the  oft-recurring  phrases  : “ Dei 
gratia  Gulielmus  rex”  “ Dei  gratia  Maximilianus  imperator.  ’ ’ 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  October  10, 1862.] 


Editor  Examiner  : With  your  penchant  for  medals,  I am  not  surprised  at  your 
taking  some  interest  in  the  selection  of  the  Confederate  Seal.  I concur  in  your  strict- 
ures on  the  confused  pictorial  allegory  of  the  Senate’s  committee,  and  agree  that  some 
single  idea,  embodied  by  a simple,  natural  object,  peculiar,  if  possible,  to  the  country, 
should  be  presented.  What  say  you  to  the  honeypod  tree,  or,  if  the  fruit  seem  of  too 
little  worth,  the  orange  tree,  laden  with  fruit,  but  armed  with  its  strongest  spines  or 
thorns,  as  a central  object,  and  around  the  margin  Cultori  ferax — Raptori  ferox.  If 
this  be  deemed  too  savage  an  inscription,  the  words  might  be  Cultori  uber — Raptori 
asper. 

Should  further  emblematic  device — illustrating  the  same  idea — be  desired,  on  the 
one  side  of  the  tree  (the  side  whose  margin  had  the  first  part  of  the  inscription)  a 
husbandman,  with  his  spade  or  plow  ; on  the  other  side,  the  armed  soldier,  on  guard, 
with  his  bayonet  or  sword  advanced.  What  say  you  to  this  suggestion  ? If  you  deem  it 
worthy  of  notice,  let  it  be  the  contribution  of  an  idle,  but  not  uninterested,  “looker 
on,”  upon  all  that  worthily  illustrates  our  grand  cause. 

I am,  sir,  &c., 

S. 


[See  Plate  XXIX.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Whig,  October  14, 1862.] 

The  Confederate  Flag. 

The  following  paragraph  appears  in  several  of  our  exchanges : 

“ Congress  has  at  last  adopted  a design  for  the  National  Flag.  Its  peculiarity  con- 
sists in  a circle  of  white  links  in  a blue  ground.  The  links  are  themselves  circles,  and 
interlocked  so  as  to  form  a large  circle.  Their  number  is  equal  to  that  of  the  States. 
Each  link  being  in  itself  complete,  is  symbolic  of  State  sovereignty,  while  their  union 
represents  the  Confederation.”  [See  Plate  CLXXXIY,  Part  II.] 

This  is  a mistake.  Congress  has  not  yet  adopted  any  design  for  a National  Flag. 
The  Joint  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  presented  a report  at  the  last  session  recom- 
mending the  adoption  of  a Confederate  Flag,  inferior  in  beauty  and  design  to  that 
above  described,  but  the  report  has  not  been  adopted,  unless  it  was  done  in  secret 
session. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  55 

[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Whig,  October  22,  1862.] 

“ Pro  Aris  et  Focis.” 

The  Augusta  Chronicle  says  the  motto  “Pro  aris  et  focis,1'  which  was  adopted  by 
the  House  of  Representatives  as  the  motto  for  the  Confederate  Seal,  “ has  been  trans- 
lated by  a graduate  of  Franklin  College,  who  is  fond  of  hunting.  He  says  it  means 
‘ Hurra  for  the  hares  and  foxes.’  He  is  delighted  with  the  motto.  An  English  friend, 
who  took  his  degree  at  a place  he  calls  Hoxford  Huniversity,  says  we  have  been 
umbugged  by  our  fox-hunting  friend,  and  that  the  motto  signifies  ‘ For  omes  hand 
halters.’  We  cannot  decide  when  such  learned  doctors  disagree.” 


The  Confederate  Flag. 

[From  the , , 186-.] 

“Congress  has  at  last  adopted  a design  for  the  National  Flag.  Its  peculiarities 
consist  in  a circle  of  white  links  in  a blue  ground.  The  links  are  themselves  circles, 
and  interlocked  so  as  to  form  a large  circle.  Their  number  is  equal  to  that  of  the 
States.  Each  link  being  in  itself  complete,  is  symbolic  of  State  sovereignty,  while 
their  union  represents  the  Confederation.” — Savannah  Republican. 

It  is  impossible  to  please  everybody  with  any  kind  of  a Flag,  and  we  will  claim  the 
privilege  of  being  dissatisfied  with  this  one.  The  device  would  suit  some  benevolent 
association  very  well,  and,  indeed,  was  probably  suggested  by  some  of  the  insignia  of 
the  Odd  Fellows  ; but  is  wholly  unbefitting  a National  Ensign.  In  point  of  significance, 
it  is  neither  very  clear  nor  forcible.  A chain  of  any  kind  of  links  is  not  a good  emblem 
of  republican  freedom  ; and  although  each  link  is  perfect  as  a symbol  “ of  State  sov- 
ereignty,” observe  that  they  can’t  be  parted,  except  you  break  them.  Wherein,  then, 
is  the  right  of  secession  indicated  by  such  a chain  ? On  the  contrary,  does  it  not  clearly 
symbolize  the  very  doctrine  of  our  enemies,  that  the  States  cannot  resume  their  isola- 
ted and  independent  condition  without  violence  ? Most  clearly  it  does.  The  stars  on 
the  Federal  Flag  are  the  representatives  of  our  doctrine,  while  this  chain  of  links  inter- 
locked seems  to  us  (if  we  understand  the  description  of  it)  a correct  symbol  of  the 
Federal  idea  of  an  inseparable  Union.  Lastly,  the  Flag  has  no  beauty  or  gorgeousness. 
Its  plain  blue  and  white  reminds  one  of  an  old-fashioned  bandana  handkerchief.  It 
is  poor  as  skimmed  milk,  and  cold  as  a snow-bank.  We  should  look  for  such  a Flag 
in  Iceland  or  the  North  Sea,  but  in  the  bright  and  glowing  regions  of  the  South,  never. 

Is  it  not  wonderful  that  the  genius  of  the  South  cannot,  in  two  years,  elaborate  a 
pleasing  and  appropriate  Flag?  This  one  will  never  stand  long,  although  Congress  has 
adopted  it. 

[Contributed  by  Mrs.  Dr.  W.  E.  Moore,  Helena,  Ark. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Raleigh  (N.  C.)  Register, , 186-.] 

The  Flag  and  Seal  question  is  settled  at  last.  The  Flag  is  a pure  white  field,  with- 
out blue  bar,  and  without  red  border ; all  over  radiant  white,  with  only  the  square 


56  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Battle  Flag  occupying  the  upper  corner  next  the  flag-staff.  It  is  a noble  and  beautiful 
Banner,  and,  with  God’s  blessing  upon  its  snow-white  fold,  we  will  rear  it  high  and  bear 
it  bravely  among  the  proudest  of  the  nations.  May  it  never  fly  out  upon  the  breeze 
save  in  a righteous  cause. 

“ A nation’s  Flag,  a nation’s  Flag, 

If  wickedly  unrolled, 

May  foes,  in  adverse  battle,  drag 
Its  every  fold  from  fold. 

But  in  the  cause  of  Liberty 

Guard  it  ’gainst  earth  and  hell ; 

Guard  it  till  death  or  victory — 

Look  you,  you  guard  it  well ! 

No  king,  no  saint,  hath  tomb  so  proud 
As  he  whose  Flag  becomes  his  shroud.” 

[Courtesy  of  Mrs.  L.  O’B.  Branch,  widow  of  Gen.  B. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Daily  News,  February  23,  1863.] 

The  wife  of  General  John  C.  Breckinridge  has  had  prepared  a magnificent  stand 
of  colors,  constructed  from  the  silk  of  the  wedding  dress  worn  by  herself  upon  the  day 
of  her  marriage,  and  designed,  through  her  distinguished  husband,  to  be  presented  to 
the  most  gallant  and  brave  regiment  in  his  division.  We  understand  that  this  appro- 
priate and  valued  present  has  been  bestowed  upon  the  20th  Tennessee  Regiment,  com- 
manded by  Colonel  Tom  Smith,  and  well  known  as  the  famous  “ Battle’s  Regiment” 
that  did  such  gallant  service  in  the  disastrous  battle  of  Fishing  Creek. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  March  4, 1863.] 

Flag  and  Seal. 

The  symbol  or  device  to  be  set  up  by  the  Confederate  States  as  the  distinctive  type 
of  their  sovereignty  is  a matter  of  some  importance,  if  it  were  only  that  we  may  be 
saved  from  the  sin  of  bad  taste  in  the  emblems  or  mottoes  we  may  select.  Indeed,  it 
might  be  said  that  almost  any  Flag  and  any  Seal,  and  any  motto,  would  answer  our 
purpose,  provided,  first,  that  it  be  distinctive  ; and,  second,  that  it  contain  no  anomaly 
or  stupidity.  At  the  present  moment,  indeed,  it  is  only  the  more  frivolous  and  dilet- 
tante portion  of  our  community  which  can  concern  itself  very  much  about  the  Flag  and 
Seal  question.  A good  currency,  a just  and  large  measure  of  taxation,  an  efficient 
Quartermaster’s  Department,  and  the  abundant  planting  of  corn,  are  of  infinitely  more 
consequence  than  heraldic  symbols.  Yet  Flag  and  Seal— visible  symbol  and  motto — 
we  must  have,  if  it  were  only  to  sign  and  seal  those  treaties  of  alliance  and  of  com- 
merce which  some  sanguine  persons  hope  soon  to  see  effected  between  ourselves  and 
the  English,  or  the  French,  or  those  outside  barbarians,  the  hoosiers  of  the  Northwest. 
Man  always  seeks  and  needs  a symbol  to  rally  Found,  and  it  becomes  to  him  somewhat 
mystic  and  divine,  as  the  emblem  of  his  country’s  might  and  glory,  for  which  he  will 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  57 

proudly  fight  and  die.  Even  those  devices  which  belong  to  a cause  lost  and  long  buried 
live  long  in  the  memory  of  its  faithful  adherents,  as  we  see  now  in  the  case  of  those 
respectable  old  Bourbonists  of  the  Faubourg  St.  Germain,  in  whose  very  hearts  the 
white  lily  still  blow's  and  blossoms.  Herein  is  one  main  test  of  a great  people,  that 
they  will  do  and  dare  all  for  their  sacred  Flag. 

“Have  not  I myself  known,”  says  Carlyle,  “five  hundred  living  soldiers  sabred 
into  crow’s-meat  for  a piece  of  glazed  cotton,  which  they  called  their  Flag,  which,  had 
you  sold  it  at  any  market-cross,  would  not  have  brought  over  three  groshens?  Did  not 
the  whole  Hungarian  nation  rise,  like  some  tumultuous  moon-stirred  Atlantic,  when 
Kaiser  Joseph  pocketed  their  iron  crown,  an  implement,  as  was  sagaciously  observed, 
in  size  and  commercial  value,  little  differing  from  a horseshoe?  It  is  in  and  through 
symbols  that  man  consciously  or  unconsciously  lives,  works,  and  has  his  being ; those 
ages,  moreover,  are  accounted  the  noblest  which  can  best  recognize  symbolical  worth 
and  prize  it  the  highest.  For  is  not  a symbol  ever  to  him  who  has  eyes  for  it  some 
dimmer  or  clearer  revelation  of  the  godlike?” 

After  all,  however,  the  States  of  this  Confederacy  and  the  citizens  thereof  do  not 
stand  in  need  of,  and  probably  will  never  admit  or  cherish,  so  deep  and  exclusive  a 
reverence  for  the  mere  symbol  of  their  central  Federal  agency.  Each  State  has,  thank 
God,  its  owm  Flag  and  Seal ; and  these  are  the  true  insignia  of  its  national  life  and 
power.  The  trampled  tyrant  and  liberating  angel,  with  its  heartfelt  Sic  semper  of 
Virginia,  will  be  for  ages,  as  we  trust,  the  real  National  Flag  of  every  true  Virginian. 
To  a South  Carolinian,  it  is  probable  that  no  Confederate  Banner,  be  it  classic  as  the 
Roman  eagles  and  radiant  as  the  rainbow,  will  ever  take  the  place  of  the  old  palmetto. 
Yet,  for  the  outside  world,  we  need  a symbol  which  all  mankind  must  learn  to  respect 
on  sea  and  land  as  the  visible  sign  of  our  sovereignty  ; and,  therefore,  the  labors  of 
our  Flag  and  Seal  Committees  are  not  to  be  passed  by  as  matter  of  no  significance. 

As  for  the  Flag,  there  is  a general  prejudice  against  the  Stars  and  Bars  ; though 
in  itself  a handsome  Banner,  it  is  said  to  be  too  like  the  old  Yankee  concern  which  has 
become  so  hateful.  Fortunately,  it  is  not  the  Flag  under  which  our  armies  have  won 
their  most  signal  successes ; and  many  believe  that  it  will  be  hard  now  to  supersede 
the  crimson  Battle  Flag  with  its  starred  St.  Andrew’s  cross  of  blue.  It  has  claims  upon 
us  now;  for  was  not  this  the  Banner  that  waved  along  the  line  of  the  Confederates 
when  they  pressed  so  fiercely  upon  McClellan’s  hosts  through  the  woods  and  marshes 
of  the  Peninsula,  until  its  crimson  flutter  was  a vision  of  terror  and  vengeance  to  the 
flying  foe?  Was  not  this  the  glorious  rag  that  struck  panic  into  the  legions  of  Pope 
when  they  saw  it  flash  upon  their  rear  like  a crimson  star  ? It  has  waved  defiance  from 
the  heights  of  Fredericksburg ; and  the  Potomac,  from  the  mountains  to  the  sea,  has 
fondly  reflected  its  blood-red  gleam.  Under  its  shadow  great  soldiers  have  died  with 
one  last  look  upon  its  dear  cross  ; and  in  the  hour  of  victory  it  has  seemed  transfigured 
into  something  godlike,  when  the  rapturous  shouts  of  our  Southern  soldiery  shook  its 
folds  like  a storm.  It  will  be  hard  to  supersede  this  Battle  Flag,  and  many  will  sympa- 
thize with  the  sentiments  of  our  correspondent,  “Alabama.” 

His  warm  approval  of  Senator  Clay’s  device  for  a Seal  may  be  more  questionable. 
If  the  “cavalier”  of  Mr.  Clay  be  a copy  simply  of  the  Washington  statue,  we  see  no 
objection  to  it.  Washington  was  essentially  our  Southern  hero  of  the  Revolution,  and 


58  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


it  is  right  to  assert  and  vindicate  our  right  in  him  and  his  fame.  But  Mr.  Clay  seems 
to  involve,  along  with  the  simple  idea  of  General  Washington  on  horseback,  some 
allusion  to  an  English  political  party  known  to  us  chiefly  by  their  devotion  to  an  English 
dynasty.  It  is  alleged,  in  support  of  this  notion,  that  the  Southerners  are  mainly 
descended  from  those  English  cavaliers,  which  is  historically  a mistake.  Some  families 
in  Virginia  are  doubtless  descended  from  a cavalier  stock,  but  they  are  far  from  repre- 
senting the  whole  State  even  of  Virginia,  to  say  nothing  of  the  other  States.  Taking 
the  whole  Confederacy  together,  there  is  much  more  of  the  Celtic  blood  than  of  that 
which  calls  itself,  erroneously,  the  “Anglo-Saxon,’’  and  it  is  undesirable  to  adopt  a 
device  which  either  raises  a historical  disputation  or  expresses  affiliation  to  a foreign 
party,  or  sets  up  for  a small  number  of  families  the  pretension  to  give  us  a symbol  of 
the  pride  and  power  of  our  Confederacy.  As  to  the  “ cavaliers  ” being  good  horsemen, 
and  therefore  a suitable  emblem  of  a nation  of  horsemen,  they  never  were  such  horse- 
men as  the  Apaches. 

Our  facetious  correspondent  enlarges  upon  mottoes.  That  is  his  specialty.  Some 
readers  may  not  be  very  sure  that  the  classical  wit  is  so  perfectly  serious  as  the  solemnity 
of  his  subject  demands.  However,  he  runs  along  pleasantly  enough,  and  suggests  good 
ideas.  He  might  have  carried  on  the  same  Latin  badinage  much  further.  For 
example,  when  he  objects  (very  properly)  to  the  old  E pluribus  unum  as  utterly  cen- 
tralizing, why  not  have  suggested  as  a State-rights  motto  Nos  numerus  sumus  ? His 
objection  to  all  emblems  expressive  of  trade  or  of  staple  productions  is  in  perfect  good 
taste.  As  a sign  and  symbol  of  a proud  people,  we  are  wholly  averse  to  cotton  (whether 
in  plant  or  bale),  tobacco  (whether  in  hogsheads  or  in  pipes),  rice,  sugar,  turpentine, 
corn-stalks,  and  hog-meat. 

It  is  time  now  to  let  our  correspondent  speak  : 

Seal  of  the  Confederate  States.— In  the  present  lull  of  the  storm  which  has 
been  raging  with  but  few  intermissions  for  the  last  two  years,  permit  a homo  umbratilis 
to  say  a few  words  concerning  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States.  While  it  is  abso- 
lutely essential  that  the  justice  of  our  cause,  the  wisdom  of  our  policy,  and  the  single- 
heartedness  of  our  patriotism  be  fully  vindicated,  it  is  eminently  desirable  that  the  taste 
and  scholarship  of  the  South  be  properly  represented.  Many  may  regard  this  as  a 
matter  of  minor  importance  ; and  so  it  is,  in  comparison  with  the  other  momentous 
issues  which  are  before  us.  But  no  educated  citizen  of  the  Confederate  States  is  indif- 
ferent to  the  style  of  our  State  papers,  and  many  feel  as  honest,  if  not  so  intense,  a 
pride  in  the  nervous,  classic  language  of  our  Chief  Magistrate  as  in  the  strategy  of  our 
great  generals.  Abraham  Lincoln  suffers  a Bull  Run  defeat  whenever  he  enters  the 
rhetorical  lists  with  Jefferson  Davis,  and  we  all  laugh  to  see  the  ungainly  backwoods- 
man floundering  helplessly  in  the  entanglements  of  his  uncouth  armor.  The  gentleman 
of  the  South  has  a native  advantage  in  language  over  his  Yankee  antagonist,  and 
although  the  Northerners  have  written  more  grammars  and  put  forth  more  editions  of 
the  classics,  with  notes  pilfered  from  European  sources  and  spoiled  in  the  pilfering,  it 
is  hardly  to  be  doubted  that,  in  proportion  to  the  population,  there  is  as  much  of  taste 
and  scholarship  in  the  South  as  in  the  North.  Still,  it  must  be  admitted  that  there  is 
but  a scant  display  of  taste  and  scholarship  in  the  design  and  motto  for  the  Seal  of  the 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  59 

Confederate  States,  as  presented  by  the  committee  of  the  last  Congress.  The  motto  is 
school-boyish  ; the  design  is  modeled  after  the  pattern  of  a bank-note  vignette.  Any 
dictionary  of  Latin  quotations  would  furnish  a hundred  less  threadbare  and  equally 
appropriate  phrases.  Any  book  of  emblems,  from  Alciatus  down,  would  supply  a 
better  design.  We  shall  have  next  a Confederate  soldier  surrounded  by  a rampart  of 
cotton-bales,  with  the  novel  quotations  In  medio  tutissimus  ibis  and  Hie  murus  aheneus 
esto,  or  a Southron  with  fixed  bayonet  confronting  a Yankee  armed  with  a nutmeg 
grater  of  the  last  pattern,  the  whole  encircled  by  the  memorable  words  Timeo  danaos 
et  dona  ferentes.  If  we  cannot  hunt  up  a new  motto  in  the  whole  range  of  Latin  prose 
and  verse,  let  us  steal  a good  one.  The  Domine,  dirige  nos  of  the  city  of  London 
would  express  very  well  the  firm  reliance  on  God  which  makes  this  struggle  of  ours  a 
holy  war  in  the  true  sense  of  the  word  ; Nec  pluribus -impar  would  be  a proud  offset  to 
E pluribus  unum ; and  even  the  ostrich  of  Richelieu,  with  its  legend  Fortis  dura  coquit, 
would  not  be  unwelcome  as  the  emblem  of  the  ‘‘hard  times”  through  which  we  are 
passing,  and  shall  yet  have  to  pass.  But  I cannot  think  that  we  are  so  far  behind  our 
colonial  ancestors,  behind  the  Biblical  Crescite  et  midtiplicamini  of  Maryland,  the  Vir- 
gilian  Animis  opibusque  parati  (Aen.  ii,  799)  of  South  Carolina,  the  revolutionary  Sit 
semper  tyrannus  of  Virginia,  which  afterwards  assumed  its  present  form,  Sic  semper 
tyrannis,  as  if  in  anticipation  of  the  many-headed  tyranny  of  our  Northern  foes. 

Allow  me,  then,  through  your  paper,  to  call  the  attention  of  Southern  scholars  to 
this  matter,  and  at  the  same  time  to  suggest  the  proper  conditions  of  our  motto. 
Brevity  and  simplicity  are  indispensable.  If  the  motto  is  Latin,  it  should  be  metrical ; 
if  formed  by  the  closing  feet  of  a hexameter,  so  much  the  better.  Compare  the  familiar 
legends  : Nec  aspera  terrent,  Post  nubila  Phcebus,  Per  aspera  ad  astra.  It  should  not 
allude  to  the  character  of  our  league,  as  it  is  impossible  to  represent  correctly  compli- 
cated political  relations  in  two  or  three  words.  This  is  the  error  of  the  motto  of  the 
United  States,  a genuine  Federalist  motto,  which  has  given  a popular  sanction  to  false 
views  of  the  old  Union.  This  is  a fatal  objection  to  the  verse,  once  so  often  quoted, 
which  has  been  suggested  as  the  motto  of  our  new  Confederacy : 

Distinct  as  the  billows,  but  one  as  the  sea, 

a verse  which  may  be  put  in  Latin  thus : 

Unum  diver  si  sic  efficiunt  mare  fluctus. 

And  the  same  objection  may  be  urged,  and  has  been  urged,  against  the  device  of 
the  sun,  if  its  rays  are  intended  to  represent  the  different  States.  But  against  the  sun 
as  the  emblem  of  our  Southern  character  and  climate  there  is  no  objection  ; and  if  we 
borrow  a hint  from  Ovid,  we  can  make  a tolerable  point  against  the  Star  Spangled 
Banner. 

( Solis  ad  ortum ) Diffugiunt  stellce  (Met.  ii,  124).  The  following  line  from  Caesar’s 
speech  in  Lucan  (Pharsal.  i,  348)  seems  to  combine  the  two  elements  which  we  need — 
the  proud  assertion  of  our  right,  the  humble  acknowledgment  of  God: 

Omnia  dat  qui  justa  negat;  nec  numina  desunt. 

The  principle  asserted  in  the  former  clause  may  have  been  wrong  for  Caesar  as  an 
individual ; it  is  right  for  us  as  States.  Individuals  are  not  to  judge  their  own  cause  ; 
States  must.  Hence  the  refusal  of  the  North  to  grant  our  rights  (qui  justa  negat ) 


60  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


releases  us  from  all  obligations  ( omnia  dot).  Besides,  the  words  would  deal  a little 
side  blow  at  the  European  powers  for  their  unfair  attitude.  As  for  the  latter  clause, 
the  Christian  might  object  to  the  plural  numina  for  the  one  God,  but  the  name  of  God 
is  plural  in  the  sacred  books  of  the  Old  Testament,  and  if  I might  be  allowed  to  give 
rabbinical  reasons,  numina  is  a trinity,  containing,  as  it  does,  three  syllables,  three 
consonants,  and  three  vowels,  and  those  three  vowels  the  primitives.  The  former  part 
would  answer  for  the  obverse,  the  latter  for  the  reverse  of  our  coins  when  the  reign  of 
paper  is  over.  While  ou  this  topic  I may  be  pardoned  for  adding  a Latin  pentameter, 
suggested  by  the  foregoing  verse  : 

Justa  negant  homines  omnia  dat  Dominus. 


Biblical  mottoes  abound ; for  instance  (if  we  adopt  the  sun),  Deus  illuminatio 
nostra  (Ps.  xxvii,  1).  But  I will  not  trespass  further  on  your  valuable  space,  as  my 
only  desire  in  making  this  communication  is  to  urge  the  propriety  of  care  in  this  matter. 
Better  to  use  for  six  months  [c.  s.  ] , or  the  Confederate  (their  w mark)  States,  than  to 
fix  on  some  puerile  or  insignificant  Seal ; better,  perhaps,  than  to  adopt  the  Ensign  of 
a “cavalier,”  under  which  some  taunting  enemy  may  write: 


Fallax  equus  ad  salutem  (Ps.  xxiii,  17). 


x. 


Our  Flag  and  Seal. 


Editors  Enquirer — Gentlemen:  I fully  concur  in  your  earnest  remonstrances 
against  Congress  concerning  itself  about  minor  matters  so  long  as  the  Yankees  are 
thundering  at  our  gates;  but,  inasmuch  as  the  Flag  and  the  Seal  continue  to  be  talked 
and  written  about,  a little  more  newspaper  discussion  of  the  same  may  not  be  out  of 
place.  Allow  me  to  give  my  opinion. 

As  to  the  Flag,  I feel  persuaded  that  our  present  Battle  Flag  would  make,  in  all 
respects,  a more  suitable  permanent  Banner  for  our  country  than  any  which  has  been 
proposed.  The  three  elements  required  for  a Flag  are  conspicuity,  simplicity,  and  good 
taste.  As  to  the  first,  no  color  is  more  conspicuous  than  red  ; as  to  the  second,  what 
could  be  more  simple  than  a plain  field  illuminated  by  a star-spangled  cross;  and  as  to 
the  third,  let  any  one  look  at  the  Battle  Flag  as  it  floats  in  the  sunshine,  and  say  where 
he  has  seen  a prettier  Banner. 

After  having  been  in  many  parts  of  the  world,  and  seen  the  Flags  of  all  the  civil- 
ized and  some  of  the  partly  civilized  nations,  I am  free  to  say  that  I know  of  few,  if 
any,  which  have  struck  me  as  more  comely. 

The  great  objection  to  most  of  those  proposed  is.  they  are  too  complicated.  They 
undertake  to  signify  too  much  artistically.  Every  one  familiar  with  painting  knows 
how  difficult,  if  not  impossible,  it  is  to  represent  the  sun.  What  great  master  ever  put 
a full-orbed  sun  in  one  of  his  pictures?  Sunsets  and  sunrises  we  have  in  abundance, 
but  then  it  is  only  the  departing  or  coming  rays  and  the  glories  shed  over  clouds  and 
sky,  and  not  the  sun  himself  which  we  see  upon  the  canvas.  Yet  our  Flag  designers, 
many  of  them,  at  least,  seem  bent  on  fixing  this  impossible  thing  as  the  most  conspic- 
uous object  on  our  country’s  Flag.  Some  of  them,  too,  propose  a blue  field.  Shock- 
ing ! Blue  is  a very  lovely  color  in  its  place,  but  not  for  a Flag.  It  lacks  the  gay, 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  61 


conspicuous  element  indispensable  for  this  purpose.  Who  that  has  seen  the  Flag  of 
Greece  ever  would  wish  to  see  a blue  Flag  again? 

No,  Messrs.  Editors,  let  us  have  our  bright,  simple,  appropriate,  defiant  Battle 
Flag  to  float  over  our  young  Confederacy ; all  the  more  becoming,  too,  from  its  having 
floated  over  many  a battle-field  through  which  that  Confederacy  has  been  working  its 
way  to  independence  and  a place  among  the  nations  of  the  earth. 

As  to  the  Seal,  it  seems  to  me  that  the  honorable  Mr.  Clay,  in  his  recent  proposi- 
tion, has  hit  the  nail  upon  the  head  at  last.  What  could  be  a more  beautiful  device 
for  a Seal  than  a “cavalier?”  And  what  object  could  be  more  appropriate  than 
Washington  ? An  equestrian  figure — a copy  of  your  own  Virginia  statue  of  the  “ Father 
of  his  Country”  would  be  the  very  thing.  We  don’t  intend  to  abandon  Washington 
to  the  Yankees,  I hope.  Never  ! Let  us,  then,  put  him  on  our  Seal,  and  on  our  coin, 
too,  whenever  we  shall  be  blessed  with  such  a thing. 

ALABAMA. 


[From  the  Southern  Illustrated  News,  March  12,  1863. J 

Our  Flag  ami  Seal. 

The  question  of  a Confederate  Flag  and  Seal  has  again  begun  to  excite  attention. 
It  might  perhaps  be  thought  that  while  matters  of  absolutely  vital  importance  to  the 
Confederacy  were  forcing  themselves  upon  the  notice  of  Congress,  the  adoption  of  a 
Flag  and  Seal  should  be  deferred  until  there  was  time  for  the  indulgence  of  an  esthetical 
taste.  The  currency — the  life-blood  of  the  country — is  disordered;  food,  the  staff  of 
life  of  the  people,  is  scarce,  and  until  some  remedy  for  the  financial  malady  can  be 
supplied,  and  some  means  for  obtaining  a larger  supply  of  provisions  can  be  hit  upon, 
it  might  seem  idle  to  be  troubling  ourselves  with  heraldic  studies  and  the  beauty  of  a 
Banner.  Still,  the  Secretary  of  State  must  have  a Seal,  and  our  people  are  tired  of 
looking  at  the  poor  imitation  of  the  “ Stars  and  Stripes”  which  floats  from  our  public 
buildings  and  military  posts.  We  may  call  it  “ Stars  and  Bars,”  but  the  “union”  is 
the  same  -with  that  of  the  United  States  Flag,  and  the  bars  are  only  wider  stripes  of 
the  same  color,  and  the  whole  thing  is  suggestive  of  the  detested  Federal  Government 
and  its  oppressions. 

We  have  always  thought  that  General  Joseph  E.  Johnston  settled  the  question  of 
a National  Flag  when  he  selected  the  blue  spangled  saltier  upon  a red  field  as  his  Battle 
Ensign.  It  may  be  recollected  that  the  choice  was  made  in  consequence  of  the  diffi- 
culty, that  had  been  seriously  felt  in  the  first  battle  of  Manassas,  in  distinguishing 
between  the  Yankee  colors  and  our  own,  and  at  a time  when  the  two  hostile  armies 
were  confronting  each  other  on  the  plains  of  Fairfax,  with  the  prospect  ot  a renewal  of 
the  bloody  fight  at  any  moment.  Haste  was  necessary  in  the  preparation  of  the  Flags, 
and  secrecy  was  also  desirable  lest  the  enemy  should  discover  our  change  of  colors,  and 
provide  themselves  with  counterfeits  to  be  basely  used  for  our  own  destruction.  General 
Johnston’s  pattern  was  thereupon  sent  to  Richmond,  and  seventy-five  ladies  from  each 
one  of  four  or  five  churches  were  set  to  work  making  the  Battle  Flags.  Their  fair 
fingers  rapidly  wrought  silk  and  bunting  into  the  prescribed  shape  and  arrangement  of 


62  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

colors;  but  despite  the  injunction  of  inviolable  confidence,  the  device  was  known  the 
subsequent  day  all  over  the  capital.  How  could  General  Johnston  expect  four  or  five 
hundred  female  tongues  to  be  silent  on  the  subject?  No  harm  was  done  by  the  disclo- 
sure, however,  and  when  next  the  brave  troops  of  the  Confederacy  went  into  the  fight 
those  Flags  were  seen  dancing  in  the  bj^eze,  the  symbol  of  hope  to  the  defenders  of 
our  country,  wherever  the  fire  was  the  deadliest  over  the  crimson  field,  borne  always 
aloft  where  follower  and  foe  might  behold  it,  ever  the  chosen  perch  of  victory  ere  the 
fight  was  done.  Could  these  gay  little  pieces  of  the  handiwork  of  the  women  of  Rich- 
mond be  collected  now,  what  emotions  would  not  the  sight  of  them  awaken,  blackened 
as  they  are  with  the  smoke  of  powder,  riddled  with  bullets,  many  of  them  stained  with 
the  blood,  the  last  drops,  that  welled  up  from  the  heart  of  a patriot  hero.  We  repeat, 
that  the  baptism  of  blood  and  fire  has  made  the  Battle  Flag  of  General  Johnston  our 
National  Ensign.  It  is  associated  with  our  severest  trials  and  our  proudest  achieve- 
ments. The  device  is  simple,  and  is  striking.  The  colors  are  readily  distinguished  at 
a great  distance.  In  heraldry,  the  saltier  is  emblematic  of  strength,  and  it  is  quite 
unlike  any  other  Flag  now  borne  among  the  nations  of  the  earth.  There  is  but  one 
difficulty  that  can  present  itself — the  impossibility  of  indicating,  by  a reversal  of  the 
Flag,  distress  of  ships  upon  the  high  seas.  This  might  be  obviated  by  the  adoption  of 
a special  Flag  of  distress,  with  the  saltier  or  the  St.  Andrew’s  cross  as  a union,  to  be 
hoisted  union  down  when  the  occasion  demanded. 

With  regard  to  the  Seal,  we  understand  that  the  committee  of  Congress  is  ready 
to  report  for  the  obverse  the  device  suggested  by  Mr.  Clay,  of  Alabama,  of  the  cavalier. 
If  by  this  is  meant  the  figure  of  a man  on  horseback  simply,  nothing,  it  seems  to  us, 
could  be  in  better  taste  or  more  appropriate  as  expressive  of  the  habits  of  our  people. 
The  device  is  not  new  ; indeed,  it  is  one  of  the  oldest  ever  employed  in  this  manner.  The 
man  on  the  back  of  the  horse  has  ever  been  a favorite  emblem  to  denote  mastery  of  the 
human  over  the  highest  type  of  the  brute  creation.  It  appears  in  sculptured  majesty 
upon  the  glorious  friezes  of  the  Parthenon.  It  was  used  by  the  Roman  emperors  upon 
their  coins  and  Seals,  and  constituted  the  sole  image  upon  the  Great  Seals  of  the  sov- 
ereigns of  England,  with  the  single  exception  of  Henry  VI,  from  the  time  of  William 
the  Conqueror  down  to  the  sway  of  the  House  of  Hanover.  William  and  Mary 
appeared  together  on  the  Seal,  d cheval — thus  introducing  two  horses.  Cromwell 
discarded  the  horseman  from  the  Seal  of  the  Commonwealth,  but  placed  a representa- 
tion of  himself,  mounted  on  a charger,  upon  the  Seal  of  Scotland. 

The  Southern  people  are  eminently  an  equestrian  people.  The  horseman,  there- 
fore, is  the  best  of  all  symbols  to  be  placed  upon  their  Seal  of  State ; but  if  by  the 
cavalier  is  meant  any  political  character — anything  more  than  a Southern  gentleman  on 
horseback — the  device  is  objectionable,  as  false  to  history,  and  as  conveying  ideas  of 
caste.  We  were  not  all  cavaliers,  and  we  have  no  patrician  orders.  Far  better  were 
it  to  let  the  horseman  be  the  well-known  and  revered  image  of  George  Washington,  as 
the  loftiest  development  of  the  Southern  gentleman.  The  whole  design  might  be  taken 
from  Crawford’s  marble  statue  in  the  Capitol  square.  A Seal  representing  horse  and 
rider,  as  there  seen  in  relief  against  the  sky,  would  be  one  of  the  simplest  and  most 
beautiful  that  the  art  of  the  die-sinker  has  ever  given  to  cabinet  or  people. 

[Courtesy  of  Captain  J.  F.  Mayer,  Eichmond,  Va. — B.  P.  T.] 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  63 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Enquirer,  March  12, 18G3.] 

Flag:  and  Seal. 

Here  is  a suggestion  from  Charleston  : 

Editors  Enquirer  : Allow  me  to  suggest  for  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States 
the  following : 

In  the  foreground,  a mule,  plow,  and  negro  driver,  whip  in  hand  ; in  the  back- 
ground, a cavalry  soldier,  with  hunting-shirt,  slouch  hat,  and  heavy  boots,  sabre  drawn, 
horse  rampant. 

As  to  the  inscription,  I am  not  particular,  so  long  as  it  is  expressive.  It  might 
be  well  to  adopt  an  idea  that  has  been  frequently  alluded  to  by  a gentleman  of  this 
State,  which  is  just  the  opposite  of  “Liberty,  equality,  and  the  rights  of  man,”  i.  e., 
“Slavery,  inequality,  and  the  rights  of  masters.” 

I am,  sir,  &c., 

A SUBSCRIBER. 

Charleston,  S.  C. 

We  object  to  the  mule  and  negro  driver,  as  conveying  too  low  an  idea.  It  might 
do  well  enough  for  a vignette  to  a bank-note,  because  money  is  the  medium  and  instru- 
ment of  commerce  and  trade  ; but  there  is  something  higher  in  the  life  of  a State  than 
trade  and  money  and  mules  and  negroes,  and  of  that  higher  and  highest  our  national 
cognizance  should  be  the  symbol  and  expression.  The  design  of  the  Seal  once  con- 
demned, the  motto  falls  to  the  ground.  “Liberty,  equality,  and  the  rights  of  man” — 
“ Slavery,  inequality,  and  the  rights  of  masters  ” — each  of  these  phrases  convey  a truth ; 
but  the  truth  is  partial  in  both  cases.  There  is  such  a thing  as  liberty,  we  hope,  and  it 
is  a good  thing.  There  is  such  a thing  as  slavery,  and  it  is  also  a good  thing ; each 
being  good  for  those  whom  it  fits.  Equality  and  inequality — both  these  are  right,  each 
in  its  place  ; and  the  formula  of  Spratt  reconciles  them,  viz  : “ Between  equals  equality 
is  right.”  So,  also,  there  are  rights  of  man,  and  also,  specifically,  rights  of  masters. 
In  short,  neither  of  these  two  mottoes  excludes  the  other. 


Elon,  Ya.  , April  6,  1863. 

Hon.  J.  L.  M.  Curry. 

My  Dear  Sir  : I sent  a few  months  since  a rough  design  for  a Confederate  Flag  to 
a member  of  Congress,  of  which,  so  far  as  I know,  he  has  taken  no  notice.  I have 
recently  had  an  opportunity  of  suggesting  it  to  several  Army  officers  and  soldiers  from 
various  portions  of  the  South,  and  all,  without  exception,  most  heartily  approve  it,  and 
I have  been  urged  to  press  it  upon  the  consideration  of  Congress.  I have  concluded, 
in  consideration  of  your  high  character  as  a man,  legislator,  and  Christian  to  submit 
it  to  you,  with  the  hope  it  will  meet  your  approbation  and  support.  At  all  events,  it 
will  be  a gratification  to  know  one  has  it  in  possession  who  will  honestly  dispose  of  it 
as  his  best  judgment  may  dictate. 

I regret  it  is  out  of  my  power  to  send  you  a drawing,  but  hope  a brief  description 
will  suffice  for  a clear  understanding  of  it : 

The  Flag. — A blue  bunting  of  proper  dimensions,  an  oval  of  white  near  the 
centre,  leaving  a margin  of  blue  above  and  below ; a full-length  likeness  of  General 


64  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


George  Washington,  dressed  in  full  uniform,  standing  erect  in  the  centre  of  the  oval, 
with  a sword  in  the  right  and  an  olive-branch  in  the  left  hand,  all  in  bronze  or  gilt;  a 
circle  of  stars  within  the  blue  surrounding  the  white  oval  corresponding  to  the  number 
of  States  in  the  Confederacy,  the  stars  to  be  white  ; “ Our  Washington,”  in  bronze  or 
gilt,  within  the  oval  and  above  the  figure. 

It  were  a useless  task  to  call  your  mind  to  the  fact  that  Washington  symbolized  in 
his  leading  characteristics  the  predominant  traits  of  Southern  character.  He  was  a 
warrior,  a farmer,  a man  of  the  highest  sense  of  honor  and  the  loftiest  morals.  He 
was  a son  of  the  South,  and  the  acknowledged  father  of  the  great  principles  of  self- 
government  for  which  we  are  contending.  His  person,  a life-like  portrait,  on  our  Ban- 
ners would  inspire  our  troops  on  every  field  and  amid  every  privation.  Who  so  fitly 
symbolizes  a fearless  execution  of  law  and  implicit  obedience  to  it?  Whose  name  sug- 
gests at  once  great  endurance  of  hardships,  reverses,  sufferings,  privations,  and  an 
unyielding,  uncompromising  spirit  amid  them  all,  as  his?  He  is  our  Washington.  He 
is  beloved  and  revered  by  all.  Such  a Banner  would  be  a bond  of  union  strong  as  his 
own  inestimable  virtues  are  enshrined  in  the  hearts  of  his  countrymen.  It  would  take 
away  from  our  enemies  one  of  the  most  constantly  inspiring  themes  with  which  they 
arouse  the  passions  of  their  people.  The  face  of  Washington  is  unlike  the  face  of  any 
man  living  or  dead,  and  can  be  recognized  by  all  at  a glance.  He  lived  and  fought  for 
and  died  enjoining  on  his  countrymen  the  great  principles  of  law,  order,  and  constitu- 
tional government.  He  was,  is,  and  ever  must  be  “ first  in  war,  first  in  peace,  and  first 
in  the  hearts  of  his  countrymen.”  That  there  is  much  in  the  aesthetic  influences  of  a 
suitable  Flag,  no  one  can  doubt ; hence  the  propriety  of  having  one  symbolical  and 
calculated  to  arouse  our  respect,  veneration,  and  love. 

Your  obedient  servant, 

L.  B.  ANDERSON,  M.  D. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  April  18, 1863.] 

Seal  of*  the  Confederate  States. 

House  of  Representatives,  April  17,  1863. 
***** 

Mr.  Boteler,  of  Virginia,  from  the  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal,  reported  the  fol- 
lowing joint  resolution  : 

“ That  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  shall  consist  of  a device  representing  an 
equestrian  portrait  of  Washington  (after  the  statue  which  surmounts  his  monument  in 
the  Capitol  Square  at  Richmond),  surrounded  with  a wreath  composed  of  the  principal 
agricultural  products  of  the  South  (cotton,  tobacco,  sugar-cane,  corn,  wheat,  and  rice), 
and  having  around  its  margin  the  words  ‘ Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America, 
22d  February,  1862,’  with  the  following  motto:  ‘Deo  duce  vincemns.'  ” 

Mr.  Boteler  favored  the  adoption  of  the  report,  which  he  said  was  the  unanimous 
conclusion  of  the  committee’s  deliberations.  The  motto  had  been  the  great  source  of 
difficulty  with  the  committee,  but  they  had  adopted,  as  peculiarly  appropriate  to  our 
present  position,  Deo  duce  vinccmus  (“  God  being  our  leader,  we  will  conquer”). 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  65 


Mr.  Jones,  of  Tennessee,  approved  of  the  device,  but  objected  to  the  motto.  He 
did  not  know  what  it  meant,  and  he  doubted  if  any  two  gentlemen  on  this  floor  would 
render  it  alike. 

Mr.  Conrad  asked  if  the  gentleman  knew  what  E pluribus  iinum  meant. 

Mr.  Jones  said  that  he  did  not.  He  never  knew  any  two  persons  to  agree  in  their 
rendition  of  it.  About  as  sensible  a rendition  as  he  had  ever  heard  was — 

“The  eagle’s  flight 
Is  out  of  sight.” 

[Laughter.]  He  should  move  to  strike  out  the  motto  proposed,  and  insert  “ Liberty 
and  Independence.” 

Mr.  Foote  asked  if  the  gentleman  would  take  Libertas  et  Independentia. 

Mr.  Jones:  No,  nothing  whatever  in  Latin.  He  wanted  a motto  which  all  who 
were  fighting  for  liberty  and  independence  could  understand  when  they  saw  it  upon  the 
Seal. 

Mr.  Boyce,  of  South  Carolina,  was  in  favor  of  the  device  proposed  by  the  com- 
mittee as  peculiarly  appropriate.  He  would  desire  that  the  example  of  Washington 
should  be  put  forth  as  the  type  of  our  country,  that  all  now  on  the  stage,  and  those  to 
come  hereafter,  might  profit  by  it. 

Mr.  Foote  eulogized  Washington,  and  warmly  approved  the  perpetuation  of  his 
great  example  proposed  by  the  committee.  In  all  his  relations,  social  and  domestic, 
his  life  was  a model  of  justice,  and  commanded  the  love  and  respect  of  all  nations 
where  his  name  was  known.  Mr.  Foote,  however,  was  not  in  favor  of  the  motto,  and 
urged  the  adoption  of  that  suggested  by  his  colleague  (Mr.  Jones). 

Mr.  Gray,  of  Texas,  contended  that  no  nation  ever  succeeded  in  a career  of  honor, 
glory,  and  prosperity  that  did  not  have  some  great  idea,  some  great  principle  in  view  ; 
heuce  he  wanted  Faith  adopted  as  our  motto,  and  offered  Fide  fortis  as  a substitute 
for  that  reported  by  the  committee. 

Mr.  Conrad,  of  Louisiana,  was  opposed  to  the  adoption  of  a motto  like  that  pro- 
posed by  the  committee,  which  conveyed  the  idea  of  a thirst  of  conquest  or  dominion. 

Mr.  Boteler  congratulated  the  committee  upon  the  fact  that  there  was  no  difference 
of  opinion  as  to  the  device,  and  that  the  only  subject  of  controversy  was  in  regard  to 
the  motto.  The  controlling  influence  which  led  the  committee  to  the  selection  of  a 
Latin  motto  was  that  it  was  a dead  language,  a language  which  could  never  change, 
and  was  understood  by  all  the  nations  of  the  world.  The  motto  on  the  Seal  would  be 
sent  to  countries  beyond  the  sea,  where  our  language  was  almost  unknown.  When 
Zeuxis,  the  painter,  had  completed  a fine  work,  he  exhibited  it  to  his  friends,  some  of 
whom  proceeded  to  make  criticisms,  when  he  remarked  : “Those  of  you  who  don’t 
like  it  had  better  try  to  make  another.”  The  committee  had  considered  this  subject 
for  two  years,  and  had  endeavored  to  decide  upon  a suitable  motto.  They  believed  the 
Confederacy  was  willing  to  acknowledge  God  as  its  leader,  and  would  conquer  under 
His  lead.  The  device  he  considered  in  every  sense  appropriate,  and  especially  since 
our  first  President  was  inaugurated  under  the  shadow  of  the  statue.  He,  however,  was 
not  entirely  wedded  to  the  Latin  ; he  only  hoped  that  the  House  would  come  to  some 
conclusion,  and  not  send  it  back  to  the  committee,  for  he  was  heartily  tired  of  it. 


66  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

The  question  was  first  taken  on  Mr.  Gray’s  amendment,  and  it  was  not  agreed  to. 
Mr.  Jones’  amendment  was  voted  down — yeas,  37  ; nays,  43. 

The  joint  resolution  was  then  ordered  to  its  engrossment,  read  a third  time,  and 
passed. 

[See  Plate  VI,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Southern  Illustrated  News,  April  18, 1863.] 

fc‘ Turkey  Foot”  on  the  Flag  Question. 

Our  valued  contributor,  “ Turkey  Foot,”  who  of  late  has  been  taking  a “Rip 
Van  Winkle  ” snooze,  has  at  last  opened  his  eyes.  The  idea  of  changing  the  Flag  of 
the  South  has  roused  him  from  his  lethargy.  Hear  how  he  discourseth  : 

Camp  on  Blackwater,  March  28,  1863. 

Editors  News — Gentlemen:  I sympathize  most  heartily  with  you  in  the  article  in 
your  last  number  relative  to  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag.  A new  Flag ! What,  in  the 
name  of  Moses,  do  we  want  with  a new  Flag?  We  have  had  new  ones  enough  already. 

I was  originally  in  favor  of  retaining  the  old  Flag.  That  “ Star  Spangled  Banner,” 
at  whose  very  name  our  hearts  were  wont  to  thrill ; over  decks  where  the  haughty 
cross  of  St.  George  and  the  vaunted  tri-color  had  been  humbled ; on  fields  whose 
names  will  live  forever  in  song  and  story,  that  Flag  had  floated  triumphantly.  And 
who  shall  say  that  its  victories  were  less  the  rewards  of  Southern  than  Northern  valor? 
The  blood  of  our  fathers  had  been  shed  for  it ; a Southerner  had  hymned  it  in  a strain 
which  had  become  a national  anthem  ; we  were  as  much  the  original  Government  as 
the  North,  and  as  much  entitled  to  retain  the  original  Flag.  So  I thought,  but  others 
thought  differently  ; and  before  the  infant  Confederacy  had  yet  a Flag  or  a Government, 
we  belted  on  our  weapons  and  gave  to  the  winds  of  Mississippi  the  cross  of  Carolina. 

Then  the  “ Stars  and  Bars  ” became  our  Flag,  and  waved  over  the  heads  of  our 
regiments  when  we  first  marched  to  guard  the  borders  of  Virginia.  It  retained  most  of 
the  distinctive  features  of  the  old  Flag,  but  was  still  thought  to  differ  from  it  sufficiently  ; 
but  the  first  field  of  Manassas  proved  that  it  was  a mistake.  The  union  was  the  same, 
the  colors  were  all  the  same  ; and  when  the  Flags  drooped  around  the  staff  in  that 
sultry  July  day,  it  was  impossible  to  distinguish  them.  There  was  no  difficulty,  how- 
ever, when  the  Flags  were  spread  by  the  breeze ; and  I see  no  reason  why  the  “ Stars 
and  Bars”  should  not  still  float  above  all  forts,  ships,  and  arsenals  of  the  Confederacy. 
But  we  needed  another  Battle  Flag.  Glorious  “ Old  Joe”  willed  it,  and  the  Southern 
Cross  rose  brightly  in  the  bloody  field  among  the  constellations  of  war.  It  fulfilled  all 
the  desiderata  of  a Battle  Flag  ; its  brilliant  colors  made  it  visible  at  a great  distance, 
and  there  was  no  danger  of  mistaking  it  for  the  Flag  of  any  other  nation.  Since  that 
time  it  has  become  historic.  Displayed  on  an  hundred  stricken  fields,  it  has  never 
been  dishonored.  It  were  sacrilege  to  change  it — treason  to  the  memory  of  the  thou- 
sands of  brave  men  who  “ have  seen  it  fly  in  triumph  o’er  each  closing  eye.” 

Certainly,  no  soldier  desires  that  Congress  should  do  what  the  Yankees  have  never 
been  able  to  do — take  that  Flag  from  us.  For  mjr  part,  I would  rather  fight  under  my 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  67 

lady’s  handkerchief  as  a Banner,  if  they  force  us  to  lay  down  the  azure  cross  which 
we  have  borne  so  often  through  the  rolling  smoke  into  the  light  of  victory. 

Yours,  indignantly, 

TURKEY  FOOT. 

[Courtesy  of  Capt.  J.  F.  Mayek,  Richmond,  Va. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News,  April  23, 1863.] 

Confederate  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  Confederate  Congress  has  at  length  adopted  a Great  Seal,  which,  we  think, 
is  both  appropriate  and  in  good  taste.  The  Seal  is  thus  described  : “An  equestrian 
portrait  of  Washington  (after  the  statue  which  surmounts  his  monument  in  the  Capitol 
square  at  Richmond),  surrounded  with  a wreath  composed  of  the  principal  agricultural 
products  of  the  South  (cotton,  tobacco,  sugar-cane,  corn,  wheat,  and  rice),  having 
around  its  margin  the  words  ‘Seal  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America,  23d  Feb., 
1862,’  together  with  the  motto,  '‘Deo  duce  vincemus  ’ (‘With  God  for  our  leader,  we 
will  conquer’).” 

This  device  and  motto  will  be  approved  by  the  good  taste  and  moral  sentiment  of 
our  people,  and  it  now  only  remains  for  Congress  to  adopt  an  appropriate  Flag  for  the 
Confederacy,  in  order  that  we  may  present  to  the  world  the  symbols,  as  well  as  the 
power  and  substance,  of  a great  and  glorious  nationality.  During  the  first  session  of 
the  Provisional  Congress,  the  subject  of  a Flag  occupied  much  of  the  attention  of  that 
body.  Designs  were  invited,  and  numerous  model  Flags  were  received  from  all  por- 
tions of  the  Confederacy  and  submitted  to  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal,  but 
for  various  reasons  the  committee  were  unable  to  adopt  any  of  the  designs  presented, 
and  Congress  was  on  the  eve  of  adjourning  without  a Confederate  Flag,  when  necessity 
compelled  them,  almost  impromptu,  to  adopt  our  present  Flag.  Since  then  the  subject 
has  been  frequently  discussed  in  Congress  and  by  the  press,  but  neither  have  been  able 
to  agree  upon  a substitute  for  the  Flag,  to  which  all  object  on  account  of  its  resem- 
blance to  that  of  the  abolition  despotism  against  which  we  are  fighting.  To  avoid  the 
evil  consequences  growing  out  of  a confusion  of  Flags  on  the  battle-field,  General 
Beauregard,  we  believe,  adopted  the  Southern  Cross  or  Battle  Flag,  which  has  so 
grown  in  favor  with  the  Army  as  to  be  now  almost  universally  substituted  in  the  field 
for  the  “ Stars  and  Bars.”  This  Flag  has  been  consecrated  by  the  best  blood  of  the 
nation  ; it  is  hallowed  by  the  memory  of  glorious  victories — it  is  sanctified  by  the 
symbol  of  our  religious  faith  and  illuminated  by  the  constellated  emblems  of  our  Con- 
federate States,  but  it  is,  in  some  important  respects,  unsuited  for  a National  Ensign. 
Extended  to  the  proper  dimensions,  the  symmetry  of  its  design  would  be  destroyed, 
and  having  no  reverse  (no  union  down),  it  cannot  be  used  as  a signal  of  distress.  The 
objects  to  be  attained  in  the  adoption  of  a Flag  are  simplicity,  distinctness, .significancy, 
and  beauty.  To  combine  the  liberty  colors — red,  white,  and  blue— so  as  to  accomplish 
these  ends,  and  yet  to  avoid  too  great  resemblance  to  the  Flag  of  some  other  nation, 
is  the  difficulty  to  be  overcome.  By  a very  simple  arrangement  all  these  ends  may  be 
attained,  and,  to  our  taste,  a very  appropriate  and  beautiful  Flag  formed.  Our  idea 


68  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


is  simply  to  combine  the  present  Flag  with  a pure  white  standard  sheet — our  Southern 
Cross,  blue,  on  a red  field,  to  take  the  place  in  the  white  Flag  that  is  occupied  by  the 
blue  union  in  the  old  United  States  Flag,  or  the  St.  George’s  Cross  in  the  British  Flag. 
As  a people,  we  are  fighting  to  maintain  the  heaven-ordained  supremacy  of  the  white 
man  over  the  inferior  or  colored  race.  A white  Flag  would  thus  be  emblematical  of 
our  cause.  Upon  a red  field  would  stand  forth  our  Southern  Cross,  gemmed  with  the 
stars  of  our  Confederacy — all  combined,  preserving  in  beautiful  contrast  the  red,  white, 
and  blue.  Such  a Flag  would  be  chaste,  beautiful,  and  significant,  while  it  would  be 
easily  made  of  silk  or  bunting,  and  would  be  readily  distinguished  from  the  Flags  of 
other  nations. 

It  may  be  objected  that  a Flag  in  which  white  prevails  might  be  mistaken  for  a 
Flag  of  Truce ; that  it  could  not  be  seen  so  distinctly  as  red  or  blue ; that  it  would  be 
easily  soiled,  &c.  The  first  objection  is  not  good,  for  the  reason  that  the  red  field  and 
blue  cross  would  be  a prominent  feature  of  the  Flag,  and  from  its  position  at  the  top, 
against  the  staff,  could  not  be  hidden  by  the  folds  of  the  Flag.  In  the  smoke  of  battle, 
or  at  sea  against  the  blue  sky,  the  white  would  stand  out  as  vividly  as  either  the  Stars 
and  Stripes  of  Abolitiondom,  the  tri-color  of  France,  or  the  red  Flag  of  England.  As 
for  the  other  objection,  we  have  always  observed  that  white  stripes  have  stood  the 
battle  and  the  breeze  as  well,  and  looked  as  fresh  and  bright,  as  the  red. 

Since  the  above  was  in  type  we  have  received  a dispatch  announcing  that  the 
Senate  has  adopted  a Flag.  It  will  be  seen  that,  with  the  exception  of  a blue  stripe 
in  the  centre  of  the  white  field,  the  new  Flag  is  the  same  as  we  have  suggested  above, 
the  present  Battle  Flag  having  been  adopted  as  the  union.  We  like  the  new  Flag,  but 
would  have  preferred  a pure  white  field. 

[Courtesy  of  Colonel  C.  C.  Jones,  jr.,  Augusta,  Ga. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  April  24, 1863.] 

Let  us  congratulate  the  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  that  they  have  completed 
their  labors,  though  they  have  invented  the  ugliest  Banner  that  ever  flapped  over  flood 
or  field.  The  chief  object  of  the  proposed  change  in  the  actual  Confederate  Flag  was 
to  get  rid  of  those  bars  which  so  strongly  resemble  stripes  ; but  the  imagination  of  the 
committee  has  been  insufficient  to  body  forth  the  form  of  the  unknown  Flag  without 
the  ancient  figure.  The  present  Standard  consists  of  two  red  and  one  white  stripe  ; 
the  committee’s  manufacture  will  consist  of  two  white  and  one  blue  stripe.  We  are 
not  certain  whether  the  stars  will  remain  in  their  sphere  or  not.  The  report  says  that 
the  union  or  square  at  the  upper  corner  of  the  new  Banner  shall  be  what  is  known  as 
the  Battle  Flag— a red  ground  with  a blue  cross  on  it.  This  cross  is  sometimes  deco- 
rated with  stars,  and  is  supposed  to  indicate  a constellation,  not  visible  in  our  heavens, 
called  the  Southern  Cross.  But  the  striking  feature  of  the  model  is  the  blue  stripe 
between  two  white  stripes.  The  present  Flag  is  a modification  of  that  formerly  borne 
by  the  country  ; the  new  one  is  a modification  of  the  modification,  and  a most  hideous 
development  it  will  prove  to  be. 

It  is  not  believed  that  the  report  will  be  adopted.  Congress  has  two  well-known 
Flags  before  it,  either  of  which  is  more  agreeable  than  this  scarecrow.  One  is  the 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  69 

actual  Confederate  Flag — pretty,  but  objectionable  from  its  resemblance  to  that  dis- 
graced by  the  United  States.  The  other  is  the  Banner  adopted  by  the  Army  without 
authority,  but  by  common  consent,  as  its  Standard  and  signal  in  battle.  It  is  St. 
Andrew's  cross,  blue,  on  a red  field,  and  has  its  advantages.  It  is  handsome  (when 
the  cross  is  not  disfigured  with  attempts  at  stars) ; it  can  be  seen  at  a great  distance  ; 
it  cannot,  in  any  confusion,  or  at  any  distance,  be  confounded  with  the  Flag  of  the 
United  States,  Mexico,  Spain,  England,  or  France  ; it  is  the  spontaneous  creation  of 
the  war,  chosen  without  an  advocate  by  the  soldiers,  and  has  been  consecrated  in  all 
the  battles  since  the  first  Manassas.  But  it  is  objected  that  it  neither  has  nor  can  have 
the  square  in  the  corner  called  the  union.  The  necessity  of  this  feature  has  been 
strongly  impressed  on  the  Congress  by  one  of  its  members,  a Mr.  Conrad.  This  worthy 
person  was  called  out  the  void  of  nature,  when  General  Taylor  became  the  brief  Pres- 
ident of  the  United  States,  to  preside  over  the  Naval  Department  of  .that  Administra- 
tion. He  is  reported  to  have  been,  when  he  entered  on  the  duties  of  his  station,  almost 
as  much  at  sea  as  Mr.  Mallory ; and  several  of  the  officers  and  clerks  of  his  Depart- 
ment were  heard  to  express  the  opinion  that  he  would  never  reach  the  shore  of  mari- 
time knowledge.  But  Mr.  Conrad  applied  himself  with  commendable  diligence  to 
remedy  the  defects  of  his  early  education  by  the  study  of  ships.  Commencing  his 
investigations  of  the  machine  at  the  highest  point  of  the  tallest  mast,  he  found  there  a 
Flag,  and  in  the  first  corner  of  the  Flag  a union.  After  due  labor,  he  arrived  at  the  ■ 
recondite  truth  that  the  union  could  be  used  as  a signal  of  distress  in  case  of  need. 
Unfortunately,  General  Taylor  then  died,  and  Mr.  Conrad  was  debarred  from  the 
further  pursuit  of  naval  knowledge.  Had  he  gone  further,  he  might  have  ascertained 
that  other  signals  of  distress,  equally  convenient,  were  known  in  the  Navy.  But  he 
has  rested  on  the  one  idea  he  brought  away  from  the  Department,  and  has  impressed 
many  of  this  respectable  Congress  with  the  belief  that  a union  is  necessary  to  the  Flag 
so  deeply,  it  appears  useless  to  argue  that  few  National  Banners  are  burdened  with  that 
appendage,  or  that  it  destroys  the  grace  and  symmetry  of  its  form.  A union  we  must 
have,  evil  omen,  in  every  sense,  though  it  is.  Is  the  Confederate  ship  already  sinking? 
Must  the  emblem  of  our  cause  and  country  be  a signal  of  distress? 

The  committee  has  also  reported  a Seal.  It  is  a great  improvement  on  their  former 
abortion.  It  is  due  to  the  suggestion  of  Senator  Clay,  of  Alabama,  who  proposed  that 
the  device  of  the  Confederate  States  should  be  a cavalier,  and  that  the  figure  should 
be  drawn  from  the  equestrian  statue  of  Washington  before  the  doors  of  the  Capitol. 
The  idea  is  apparently  excellent.  The  Southern  people  are  an  equestrian  race,  and 
the  instinct  should  be  encouraged  so  long  as  they  are  masters  of  slaves.  Washington 
himself  is  the  noble  type  all  Confederate  citizens  should  strive  to  imitate.  The  statue 
also  has  its  place  in  the  history  of  the  nation.  The  Constitution  was  declared  and  the 
Government  inaugurated  on  the  day  that  monument  commemorates,  and  at  its  feet. 
Congress  has  assembled  under  its  shadow  during  the  struggle  for  independence.  Stated 
in  words,  no  happier  device  could  be  conceived.  It  is,  however,  open  to  the  objection 
against  the  employment  of  all  pictures  representing  life  in  heraldic  compositions. 
Unless  every  copy  of  the  Seal  is  executed  by  a first-rate  artist,  it  will  frequently  pre- 
sent a poor  and  ludicrous  appearance.  Now  a good  artist  cannot  be  procured  when- 
ever an  office  Seal  is  required.  A Cellini  comes  once  in  a century,  at  most ; but  the 


70  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


conventional  types  of  heraldry  are  as  easily  reproduced  as  the  letters  of  the  alphabet, 
and  their  effect  is  always  good  if  the  original  choice  is  happy.  It  is,  however,  quite 
useless  to  make  objection  to  the  Seal.  It  will  probably  be  adopted,  and  it  is  the  best 
that  Congress  is  likely  to  find  by  its  own  light.  Its  members,  who  are  not  heralds, 
have  attempted  to  do  the  work  of  the  college  of  heralds,  and  have  done  it  as  amateurs 
always  do  professional  work.  In  Paris,  Rome,  &c. , there  are  men  whose  business  it 
is  to  contrive  and  arrange  armorial  insignia.  If  Congress  had  set  aside  all  amateur 
suggestions,  and  paid  the  most  distinguished  of  these  professors  to  make  us  arms,  it  is 
probable  that  we  would  have  been  better  satisfied  in  the  end  ; but  the  Washington  Seal 
will  please  many,  and  is  certainly  the  best  we  can  get  under  present  circumstances. 

Not  so  with  the  motto,  or  legend,  which  is  to  go  with  it.  Congress  can  surely 
afford  a more  worthy  morsel  of  Latinity  than  Deo  diice  vincemus.  “Mr.  Jones” 
objects  to  all  Latin  whatever — he  wants  something  that  our  common  soldiers  can  under- 
stand ; but  as  the  dispatches  of  the  Government  are  not  addressed  to  the  soldiers,  and 
are  addressed  to  the  rulers  and  representatives  of  foreign  nations  who  speak  other 
tongues  than  ours,  it  is  advisable  that  the  legend  should  be  in  the  language  which  still 
is,  most  nearly,  the  universal  language.  Yet  it  may  justly  be  objected  to  these  words 
that  they  are  not  classical  and  are  canting.  The  legend  may  be  grammatical  Latin,  but 
certainly  is  not  elegant  Latin.  The  committee,  with  all  the  books  at  their  command, 
might  certainly  have  found  some  more  expressive  phrase  than  that.  Nor  would  it  have 
been  the  worse  because  used  b}r  some  person  or  persons  before.  All  the  celebrated 
mottoes  have  been  borrowed  or  begged  from  hand  to  hand.  That  of  the  United  States 
has  been  much  admired,  but  it  was  once  the  well-known  property  of  another  ; it  was 
stolen  from  the  cover  of  the  oldest  and  most  widely  circulated  magazine  in  the  English 
language,  which  bore  a wood-cut  representing  a bunch  of  flowers,  with  the  words 
E pluribus  iinum  beneath  it.  They  constitute  now  the  war-cry  of  our  adversary.  The 
Confederacy  might  find  a haughty  and  appropriate  equivalent  in  the  lofty  and  once 
famous,  though  now  forgotten,  inscription  on  a certain  medal : Nec pluribus  impar. 

It  would  apposite  both  to  Washington,  whose  portrait  it  will  accompany,  and  to 
the  situation  of  the  Confederacy,  alone  against  odds  but  proudly  equal  to  them  all. 
At  least,  no  objection  could  be  made  either  to  the  elegance  of  the  Latin  or  to  our 
present  right  of  adoption,  as  it  was  originally  borrowed  from  the  Roman  poet,  and  has 
relapsed  into  the  open  domain  since  two  hundred  years. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  April  24,  1SG3.] 

Flag  and  Seal. 

These  two  matters,  we  hope,  are  in  a fairway  of  being  settled.  The  Senate  com- 
mittee has  reported  a bill  to  determine  that  the  Confederate  Flag  shall  be  a white  field, 
with  the  wrell-known  Battle  Flag  for  an  “union”  in  its  upper  corner  next  the  staff,  and 
a blue  bar  running  horizontally  through  the  white  field,  and  occupying  one-third  of  the 
whole  width.  In  other  words,  the  Flag  is  to  bp  white,  blue,  and  white,  instead  of  red, 
white,  and  red:  and  instead  of  the  too  Yankee-like  “union,”  with  its  firmament  of 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  71 

stars,  it  is  to  lift  on  high  our  blood-baptized,  victory-crowned,  regimental  Battle  Flag, 
burning  like  a star. 

As  for  the  colors  of  the  field,  we  are  told  that  the  snow-white  is  to  typify  our 
extreme  purity  and  innocence ; the  true  blue,  our  strength  and  the  nobility  of  our  blue 
blood,  sangre  azul;  in  all  which  we  pay  ourselves  a very  handsome  and  appropriate 
compliment.  This  Flag,  however,  has  yet  to  be  approved  by  the  House  ; and  it  is  said 
that  they  will  expunge  the  bar  of  blue,  leaving  a pure  white  field  with  a red  border. 
In  any  case,  the  present  Battle  Flag  is  to  be  retained  as  the  “ union.” 

The  design  for  the  Seal  is  adopted  by  the  House,  and  will  probably  be  passed  in 
the  Senate.  It  represents  George  Washington  on  horseback,  as  he  appears  on  the 
monument  in  Capitol  Square ; in  the  background,  a landscape,  with  what  seems  to  be 
a planter’s  house.  Around  all  this  runs  a wreath  made  up  of  corn-stalks,  sugar-cane, 
tobacco  leaves,  &c.;  the  whole  very  tasteful  and  elegant.  We  are  aware  that  the 
Yankee  nation  will  dispute  our  title  to  display  the  figure  of  Washington  as  our  emblem, 
on  tbe  ground  that  our  Washington  was  a thorough-bred  Yankee,  and  that  Virginians 
are  no  longer  the  countrymen  of  the  hero  ; but  this  ethnographical  theory  is  not  generally 
adopted  by  the  learned  of  the  Confederacy.  The  design  of  the  Seal  has  been  drawn 
by  M.  Labarre,  of  Richmond.  If  it  be  well  cut,  the  impression  will  be  a highly  credit- 
able signet  to  affix  to  our  first  treaty- — so  soon  as  we  shall  have  foreign  relations. 

[See  Plates  VI,  VII,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Dispatch,  April  25, 18G3.] 

The  Flag  and  Seal. 

The  Senate  committee,  it  is  understood,  have  completed  their  designs  of  the  Flag 
and  Seal  for  the  Confederacy.  The  Flag  is  a white  field,  with  the  well-known  Battle 
Flag  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  (General  Johnston’s  Flag)  in  a square  of  blue  at  the 
upper  corner,  near  the  staff,  and  a blue  horizontal  bar  across  the  centre.  Willing  to 
accept  almost  anything  in  preference  to  the  present  despised  parody  upon  the  Yankee 
Flag,  we  should  yet  prefer  the  Battle  Flag  itself  to  the  modification  of  it  proposed  by 
the  committee.  At  the  beginning  of  the  war,  owing  to  the  close  resemblance  between 
the  Confederate  and  Federal  Flags,  each  party  often  accused  the  other  of  the  fraud  of 
hoisting  its  antagonist’s  Flag  for  the  purpose  of  deception.  Both  parties  were  mistaken, 
and  each  was  possibly  deluded  by  the  mistake  into  some  unfortunate  movement.  General 
Johnston  was  so  thoroughly  convinced  of  the  danger  of  going  into  battle  with  a Flag 
so  much  like  that  of  the  enemy,  that  he  caused  to  be  adopted  in  the  field  the  well-known 
Battle  Flag — illustrious  for  the  many  victories  won  beneath  its  folds.  It  is  simple,  neat, 
and  very  distinct  from  a long  distance.  It  answers  the  purpose  of  a Flag  very  well,  is 
easily  made,  and  is  not  obnoxious  to  any  serious  objection.  AYe  are  sure  the  conflicting 
counsels  of  a body  of  men  not  deeply  skilled  in  heraldry  will  not  produce  anything  so 
appropriate  and  likely  to  engross  so  much  the  public  approval  and  love  as  the  Potomac 
Battle  Flag.  A great  many  battles  must  be  fought,  and  a great  many  victories  must  be 
won  under  another,  to  make  it  so  famous.  The  change  made  by  the  committee  is  no 


72  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

improvement  of  it.  We  trust  that  at  least  the  blue  bar  across  the  committee’s  Flag  may 
be  stricken  out  by  Congress.  Let  us  be  done  with  the  bars,  at  all  events.  It  would  be 
grateful  to  the  nation,  we  are  sure,  if  all  parties  would  compromise  on  the  glorious 
Battle  Flag.  It  is  already  consecrated  by  our  best  blood,  and  many  of  the  most  bril- 
liant victories  in  the  annals  of  war.  It  should,  therefore,  be  cherished  with  affection. 
How  can  we  discard  it  ? With  what  feelings  can  we  lay  it  away  in  the  archives  as  a 
memento  of  the  nation’s  glory?  Can  we  hide  it  away  from  the  eyes  of  the  people? 
Do  what  we  will  wTith  it,  it  is  hardly  probable  that  the  Army  will  give  it  up.  Congress- 
men may  suggest  variations  upon  it,  or  may  dictate  a new  Banner  to  the  veterans  of  so 
many  bloody  fields,  but  they  will  not  abandon  the  Flag  they  have  fought  and  conquered 
under,  and  which  they  have  learned  to  love  as  the  emblem  of  their  triumphs.  It  must, 
indeed,  be  something  better  than  any  yet  devised  that  could  seduce  them  from  this 
invincible  Battle  Flag. 

The  Seal  represents  the  equestrian  statue  of  Washington,  after  that  on  the  Capitol 
Square,  with  appropriate  bordering  and  background,  and  the  motto  “ Deo  duce  vince- 
inus,“  which,  in  English,  freely  rendered,  is  “God  being  with  us,  we  will  conquer.” 
The  people  care  less  about  the  Seal  than  the  Flag  ; and  we  suppose  there  will  be  no 
objection  to  this.  It  will  certainly  be  satisfactory  in  so  far  as  it  contains  the  figure  of 
Washington. 

The  Congress  has  been  too  long  in  the  making  of  the  Flag,  certainly.  It  is  to  be 
hoped  that  they  will  now  settle  both  questions  of  Flag  and  Seal,  and  end  debate  about 
them. 

[See  Pi.ates  VI,  VII,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  April  25, 18G3.] 

Flag  and  Seal. 

We  have  many  letters,  with  innumerable  suggestions,  for  this  is  a subject  which 
greatly  excites  the  dilettante  public  ; but  we  are  unwilling  to  perplex  the  affair  by  new 
ideas,  which  would  necessitate  new  bills,  new  conferences,  new  speeches,  and  thus,  per- 
haps, keep  us  for  another  Congress  without  either  Flag  or  Seal.  The  affair,  we  hope, 
is  almost  settled,  and,  on  the  whole,  satisfactorily.  The  motto  for  the  Seal  is  still 
open,  and  presents  the  difficulty  of  an  “ embarras  de  richesses.”  “Nee  pluribus 
impar ” will  not  do,  if  it  were  only  that  it  contains  one  of  the  words  of  our  enemy’s 
motto,  and  would  be  regarded  as  an  allusion  to  that.  We  hope  the  motto  that  is  to  be 
adopted  will  imply  plurality,  not  unity,  and  thus  symbolize  the  State  sovereignties  of 
our  Confederacy. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  April  27, 1803.] 

Stars  and  stripes — stripes  and  stars ! Shall  we  never  see  the  end  of  them  ? Is 
that  committee  over  which  Mr.  Boteler  presides  composed  of  secret  reconstructionists 
and  old  submissionists,  who  cannot  avoid  the  .exhibition  of  their  secret  inclinations 
even  while  making  a Flag  for  rebels?  All  their  propositions  are  disguises  of  “the 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  73 

Flag.”  The  last  detestable  invention  is  the  worst  of  all.  They  have  turned  the  stripes 
blue,  probably  to  indicate  their  opinion  of  our  chances.  The  House  has  adopted  their 
report,  stars,  blue  bars,  union,  and  all,  and  to-day  it  comes  up  for  the  final  decision 
of  the  Senate-  Let  us  hope  it  will  there  be  sent  to  join  its  Yankee  prototype  and  the 
tune  of  “ Yankee-Doodle.” 

The  committee's  report  of  the  Seal  was  also  adopted  by  the  House,  and  has  gone 
to  the  Senate.  The  suggestion  of  this  Seal,  which  has  found  more  general  favor  than 
anything  else  that  has  come  from  the  committee,  originated  in  the  Senate,  and  we  hope 
that  body  will  not  permit  its  bright  idea  to  be  spoilt  by  the  absurd  appendage  which  the 
committee  has  attached  to  it.  The  Senate  resolution  declared  that  the  device  on  the 
Seal  should  be  a cavalier  or  horseman,  and  that  the  figure  of  the  horseman  should  be 
drawn  from  the  equestrian  statue  which  adorns  the  square  of  the  Capitol.  To  this, 
according  to  a drawing  in  circulation,  the  committee  has  had  the  taste  and  sense  to  add 
a landscape — a planter’s  house  in  the  background,  with  mountains,  villages,  &c.  The 
whole  drawing  bore  a painful  resemblance  to  the  back  of  a Yankee  watch,  and  we  were 
not  surprised  to  learn  that  so  soon  as  the  report  was  confirmed  by  the  Senate,  the 
drawing  was  to  be  forwarded  to  New  York,  where  the  Seals  were  to  be  engraved  in 
brass  and  steel,  and  a pretty  penny  put  into  the  pocket  of  the  enterprising  runner  who 
has  his  eye  on  the  “job.” 

If  the  Senate  has  not  sufficient  taste  and  instruction  to  perceive  the  injury  which 
will  be  done  to  the  effect  of  its  device  by  the  ridiculous  and  impossible  attempt  at  a 
landscape  in  the  background,  this  invention  will  not  long  give  satisfaction  even  to  those 
who  make  it.  The  ground  they  tread  on  is  not  new.  They  meddle  with  an  established 
science.  All  things  have  been  tried  in  it,  and  experience  has  proven  that  the  intro- 
duction of  pictures  into  such  compositions  does  not  produce  a good  effect  or  give 
pleasure.  Unity  of  impression  is  best  produced  by  a single  object.  It  is  hoped  that 
the  Senate  will  choose  for  the  Standard  of  the  Confederacy  its  brilliant  Battle  Flag  of 
scarlet  and  blue,  pure  and  simple,  without  star  or  stars,  and  that  it  will  adhere  to  its 
original  device  for  the  Seal.  As  to  the  mechanical  execution,  there  is  in  this  town  an 
engraver  (Baumgarten)  at  least  equal  to  any  in  the  United  States,  who  can  do  as  good 
work,  when  paid  for  the  time,  as  any  we  have  ever  seen  from  New  York.  For  some- 
thing better,  the  Confederacy  must  send  to  Paris,  London,  or  Rome,  where  only  artists 
of  the  first  class — who  demand,  it  may  be  mentioned,  mints  of  money  for  their  work — 
are  to  be  found. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  April  28, 1SG3.] 

Confederate  Seal. 

Senate,  April  27,  1863. 

***** 

The  doors  having  been  opened,  on  motion  of  Mr.  Semmes,  the  House  resolution 
establishing  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States  was  taken  up. 

Mr.  Semmes  moved  to  amend  the  resolution,  by  striking  out  the  words  “ Seal  of,” 
and  substituting  for  the  words  “ Deo  duce  vincemus"  the  legend  “Z>eo  vindiee  majores 
cemulamur .” 


74  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

Mr.  Senimes  said : Mr.  President,  I am  instructed' by  the  committee  to  move  to 
strike  out  the  words  “ duce  vincemus ” in  the  motto,  and  insert  in  lieu  thereof  the 
words  “vinclice  majores  cemulamur, ’ ’ so  that  the  motto  will  read : “Deo  vinclice  majores 
cemulamur  (“  Under  the  guidance  and  protection  of  God,  we  endeavor  to  equal  and 
even  to  excel  our  ancestors  ”).  Before  discussing  the  proposed  change  in  the  motto, 

I will  submit  to  the  Senate  a few  remarks  as  to  the  device  on  the  Seal.  The  committee 
have  been  greatly  exercised  on  this  subject,  and  it  has  been  extremely  difficult  to  come 
to  any  satisfactory  conclusion.  This  is  a difficulty,  however,  incident  to  the  subject, 
and  all  that  we  hope  to  do  is  to  avoid  what  Visconti  calls  “an  absurdity  in  bronze.” 
The  equestrian  statue  of  Washington  has  been  selected  in  deference  to  the  current  of 
popular  sentiment.  The  equestrian  figure  impressed  on  our  Seal  will  be  regarded  by 
those  skilled  in  glyptics  as  to  a certain  extent  indicative  of  our  origin.  It  is  a most 
remarkable  fact  that  an  equestrian  figure  constituted  the  Seal  of  Great  Britain  from  the 
time  of  Edward  the  Confessor  down  to  the  reign  of  George  III,  except  during  the  short 
interval  of  the  Protectorate  of  Cromwell,  when  the  trial  of  the  king  was  substituted 
for  the  man  on  horseback.  Even  Cromwell  retained  the  equestrian  figure  on  the  Seal 
of  Scotland,  but  he  characteristically  mounted  himself  on  the  horse.  In  the  reign  of 
William  and  Mary  the  Seal  bore  the  impress  of  the  king  and  queen,  both  mounted  on 
horseback. 

Washington  has  been  selected  as  the  emblem  for  our  shield  as  a type  of  our  ances- 
tors, in  his  character  of  princeps  majorum.  In  addition  to  this,  the  equestrian  figure 
is  consecrated  in  the  hearts  of  our  people  by  the  local  circumstance  that  on  the  gloomy 
and  stormy  22d  of  February,  1862,  our  permanent  Government  was  set  in  motion  by 
the  inauguration  of  President  Davis  under  the  shadow  of  the  statue  of  Washington. 

The  committee  are  dissatisfied  with  the  motto  on  the  Seal  as  proposed  by  the  House 
resolution.  The  motto  proposed  is  as  follows : “ Deo  duce  vincemus''  (“Under  the 
leadership  of  God  we’will  conquer”). 

The  word  “ duce"  is  too  pagan  in  its  signification,  and  is  degrading  to  God,  because 
it  reduces  him  to  the  leader  of  an  army;  for  scarcely  does  the  word  “duce"  escape 
the  lips  before  the  imagination  suggests  “ exercitus ,”  an  army  for  a leader  to  command. 

It  degrades  the  Christian  God  to  the  level  of  pagan  gods,  goddesses,  and  heroes, 
as  is  manifest  from  the  following  quotation:  “ Nil  desperandum  Teucro  duce."  This 
word  “duce"  is  particularly  objectionable,  because  of  its  connection  with  the  word 

II  vincemus,"  we  will  conquer.  This  connection  makes  God  the  leader  of  a physical 
army,  by  means  of  which  we  will  conquer,  not  must  conquer.  If  God  be  our  leader, 
we  must  conquer,  or  he  would  not  be  the  God  of  Abraham,  and  of  Isaac,  and  of  Jacob, 
nor  the  God  of  the  Christian.  This  very  doubt  implied  in  the  word  “ vincemus  ” so 
qualifies  the  omnipotence  of' the  God  who  is  to  be  our  “leader,”  that  it  imparts  a 
degrading  signification  to  the  word  “ duce"  in  its  relation  to  the  attributes  of  the  Deity. 

The  word  “ vincemus  ” is  equally  objectionable,  because  it  implies  that  war  is  to  be 
our  normal  stale  ; besides,  it  is  in  the  future  tense,  “ we  will  conquer.”  The  future  is 
always  uncertain,  and  therefore  it  implies  doubt.  What  becomes  of  our  motto  when 
we  shall  have  conquered?  The  future  becomes  an  accomplished  fact,  and  our  motto 
thus  loses  its  significance.  In  addition  to  this, -there  are  only  two  languages  in  which 
the  words  “ will  ” and  “shall  ” are  to  be  found,  the  English  and  the  German,  and  in 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  75 

those  they  are  used  to  qualify  a positive  condition  of  the  mind,  and  render  it  uncertain  ; 
they  are  repugnant  to  repose,  quiet,  absolute  and  positive  existence. 

As  to  the  motto  proposed  by  us,  we  concur  with  the  House  in  accepting  the  word 
“ Deo ” (God).  We  do  so  in  conformity  to  the  expressed  wishes  of  the  framers  of  our 
Constitution,  and  the  sentiments  of  the  people  and  of  the  Army.  The  preamble  of  the 
Provisional  Constitution  declares  that  “We,  the  deputies  of  the  sovereign  and  inde- 
pendent States  of  South  Carolina,”  &c.,  “invoking  the  favor  of  Almighty  God,  do 
hereby  ordain,”  &c. 

The  preamble  of  the  Permanent  Constitution  is  more  explicit  still ; it  declares 
that  “ We,  the  people  of  the  Confederate  States,”  &c.,  “ invoking  the  favor  and  guidance 
of  Almighty  God,  do  ordain,”  &c.  • 

In  this  respect  both  our  Constitutions  have  deviated  in  the  most  emphatic  manner 
from  the  spirit  that  presided  over  the  construction  of  the  Constitution  of  the  United 
States,’ which  is  silent  on  the  subject  of  the  Deity. 

Having  discarded  the  word  “ duce"  the  committee  endeavored  to  select  in  lieu  of 
it  a word  more  in  consonance  with  the  attributes  of  the  Deity,  and  therefore  more 
imposing  and  significant.  They  think  success  has  crowned  their  efforts  in  the  selection 
of  the  word  “ vindex ,”  which  signifies  an  asserter,  a defender,  protector,  deliverer, 
liberator,  a mediator,  and  a ruler  or  guardian,  as  may  be  seen  from  the  following 
examples : 

1.  A defender  : “ Habet  sane  populus  tabellam  quasi  vindicem  libertatis."  [Livy.] 
The  people  hold  a bond,  the  defender,  as  it  were,  of  their  liberty. 

2.  A protector:  “Vindicem  penculi  Curium  res  suppeditat."  [Livy.]  The  cir- 
cumstances suggest  or  afford  Curius  as  a protector  against  danger. 

3.  A mediator : “ Nec  Devs  intersit  nisi  dignus  vindice  nodus  incident."  [Horace 
Ars.  Pcetica.  ] Let  not  God  intervene  unless  the  catastrophe  be  worthy  of  such  a 
mediator  or  interpositor. 

4.  Ruler  or  guardian  : “Vindicem  eum  regni  reliquit."  [Justin’s  History.]  He 
left  him  ruler  or  guardian  of  the  kingdom. 

Vindex  also  means  an  avenger  or  punisher. 

1.  “Furice  vindices  facinorum."  [Cicero.]  The  furies  the  avengers  of  crime. 

2.  “Me  vindicem  conjurationis  odervnt."  [Cicero.]  They  hate  me,  the  punisher 
of  their  conspiracy. 

No  word  appeared  more  grand,  more  expressive  or  significant  than  this.  Under 
God  as  the  asserter  of  our  rights,  the  defender  of  our  liberties,  our  protector  against 
danger,  our  mediator,  our  ruler  and  guardian,  and  as  the  avenger  of  our  wrongs  and 
the  punisher  of  our  crimes,  we  endeavor  to  equal  or  even  to  excel  our  ancestors. 
What  word  can  be  suggested  of  more  power,  and  so  replete  with  sentiments  and  thoughts 
consonant  with  our  idea  of  the  omnipotence  and  justice  of  God? 

At  this  point  the  committee  hesitated  whether  it  were  necessary  to  add  anything 
further  to  the  motto  “ Deo  vindice."  These  words  alone  were  sufficient  and  impres- 
sive, and,  in  the  spirit  of  the  lapidary  style  of  composition,  were  elliptical,  and  left 
much  to  the  play  of  the  imagination.  Reflection,  however,  induced  us  to  add  the 
words  “ majores  cemulamur,"  because  without  them  there  would  be  nothing  in  the 


76  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

motto  referring  to  the  equestrian  figure  of  Washington.  It  was  thought  best  to  insert 
something  elucidating  or  adoptive  of  the  idea  intended  to  be  conveyed  by  that  figure. 
Having  determined  on  this  point,  the  committee  submit  to  the  judgment  of  the  Senate 
the  words  “ major es  cemulamur ,”  as  best  adapted  to  express  the  ideas  of  which  the 
emblem  is  suggestive.  A question  arose  as  to  the  selection  of  the  proper  words  to 
express  the  ideas  of  “ our  ancestors.”  “ Patres  ” was  at  first  suggested,  but  abandoned, 
because  “ majores"  signifies  ancestors  absolutely,  and  is  also  more  suggestive  than 
“ patres."  The  latter  is  a term  applied  to  our  immediate  progenitors  who  may  be 
alive,  whereas  “ majores"  conveys  the  idea  of  a more  remote  generation  that  has 
passed  away.  This  distinction  is  well  marked  in  the  following  quotation  from  Cicero 
against  Caecilius : “ Patres  majoretque  nostri  ” — ■“  Our  fathers  and  our  forefathers.” 

That  being  disposed  of,  the  question  arose  as  to  the  proper  signification  of  the 
word  “ cemulamur .”  Honorable  emulation  is  the  primary  signification  of  the  word  ; 
in  its  secondary  sense,  it  is  true,  it  includes  the  idea  of  improper  rivalry  or  jealousy, 
but  it  is  used  in  its  primary  and  honorable  sense  by  the  most  approved  authors,  as  may 
be  seen  from  the  following  examples : 

1.  Quoniam  cemulari  non  licet  nunc  invides.  [Plautus — The  Boastful  Soldier.] 
“ Since  you  cannot  equal,  you  now  envy  him.” 

2.  Omnia  ejus  instituta  laudare  facilius  possunt  quarn  cemulari.  [Cicero.]  “It 
is  easier  for  all  to  praise  than  to  equal  his  precepts.” 

3.  Pindarum  quis-quis  studet  cemulari,  &c.  [Horace,  Odes,  4th  Book,  2d  verse, 

15.]  “ Whoever  endeavors  to  equal  Pindarus  is  sure  to  fall.” 

4.  Yirtutes  majorum  cemulari.  [Tacitus:  Life  of  Agricola.  1 “ To  equal,  to  come 
up  to  the  virtues  of  their  ancestors.” 

This  last  example  is  an  exact  application  of  the  word  in  the  manner  proposed  by 
the  committee. 

The  secondary  and  improper  sense  of  the  word  cemulari  is  excluded  in  the  proposed 
motto,  by  the  relation  it  bears  to  uDeo  vindice."  This  relation  excludes  the  idea  of 
envy  or  jealousy,  because  God,  as  the  asserter  of  what  is  right,  justifies  the  emulation, 
and,  as  a punisher  of  what  is  wrong,  checks  the  excess,  in  case  the  emulation  runs  into 
improper  envy  or  jealousy. 

In  adopting  the  equestrian  figure  of  Washington,  the  committee  desire  distinctly  to 
disavow  any  recognition  of  the  embodiment  of  the  idea  of  the  “ cavalier.”  We  have 
no  admiration  for  the  character  of  the  cavalier  of  1640,  any  more  than  for  that  of  his 
opponent,  the  Puritan.  We  turn  with  disgust  from  the  violent  and  licentious  cavalier, 
and  we  abhor  the  acerb,  morose,  and  fanatic  Puritan  of  whom  Oliver  Cromwell  was 
the  type.  In  speaking  of  Cromwell  and  his  character,  Guizot  says  “ that  he  possessed 
the  faculty  of  lying  at  need,  with  an  inexhaustible  and  unhesitating  hardihood  which 
struck  even  his  enemies  with  surprise  and  embarrassment.”  This  characteristic  seems 
to  have  been  transmitted  to  the  descendants  of  the  Pilgrims,  who  settled  in  Massachusetts 
Bay  to  enjoy  the  liberty  of  persecution.  If  the  “cavalier”  is  to  carry  us  back  to 
days  earlier  than  the  American  Revolution,  I prefer  to  be  transported  in  imagination  to 
the  fields  of  Runnymede,  where  the  Barons  extorted  Magna  Charta  from  the  unwilling 
John.  But  I discard  all  reference  to  the  cavaliers  of  old,  because  it  implies  a division 
of  society  into  two  orders,  an  idea  inconsistent  with  Confederate  institutions. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  77 


The  committee  have  discharged  their  duty,  and  submit  the  result  to  the  consider- 
ation of  the  Senate.  It  is  true  they  have  labored  more  than  a year,  and  perhaps  critics 
may  say  “ parturiunt  monies  nascitur  ridiculus  mus .” 

AEsthetical  critics,  who  claim  to  be  versed  in  glyptics,  have,  however,  failed  to 
suggest  anything  better  than  the  proposition  of  the  committee ; and  if  this  proposition 
be  not  satisfactory  to  the  Senate,  it  is  hoped  the  matter  will  be  intrusted  to  other  and 
more  learned  hands. 

Mr.  Semmes’  amendment  to  strike  out  the  words  “ Seal  of”  was  agreed  to. 

Mr.  Davis  moved  to  amend  the  original  text  by  striking  out  the  word  “ vincemus." 
Agreed  to. 

Mr.  Semmes’  motion  to  strikeout  “ duce”  and  insert  “ vindice  majores  cemula- 
mur  ” was  rejected. 

Mr.  Semmes  then  moved  to  amend  by  substituting  “ vindice ” for  “duce.” 
Agreed  to. 

The  resolution,  as  amended,  was  then  read  a third  time,  passed,  and  sent  to  the 
House. 

The  Seal,  as  adopted  by  the  Senate,  will  be  as  follows: 

“A  device  representing  an  equestrian  portrait  of  AVashington  (after  the  statue 
which  surmounts  his  monument  in  the  Capitol  Square  at  Richmond),  surrounded  with 
a wreath  composed  of  the  principal  agricultural  products  of  the  Confederacy,  and 
having  around  its  margin  the  words  “ Confederate  States  of  America,  22d  February, 
1862,”  with  the  following  motto:  “X>eo  vindice.” 

On  motion,  the  Senate  adjourned. 

[See  Plate  VI,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News,  April  28,  1863.] 

The  New  Confederate  Flag. 

It  appears  that  the  House  of  Representatives  have  yet  to  act  upon  the  new  Flag 
adopted  by  the  Senate,  and  we  learn  from  the  Richmond  papers  that  it  is  probable  that 
the  House  will  amend  it  by  striking  out  the  blue  bar  in  the  centre  of  the  white  field. 
It  is  to  be  hoped  that  they  will  do  so,  as  the  bar  is  objectionable  on  several  accounts, 
and  is  a deformity  to  what  would  otherwise  be  a most  beautiful,  significant,  and  appro- 
priate Flag.  Let  any  one  make  a drawing  of  the  Flag,  in  colors,  on  paper,  and  they 
will  at  once  discover  that  the  blue  bar  running  up  the  centre  of  the  white  field  and 
joining  with  the  right  lower  arm  of  the  blue  cross  is  in  bad  taste,  and  utterly  destructive 
of  the  symmetry  and  harmony  of  the  design.  The  broad,  horizontal  blue  bar,  forming 
on  the  end  of  the  smaller  blue  bar  belonging  to  the  cross,  and  which  extends  up  to  the 
upper  corner  of  the  red  union  at  an  angle  of  about  forty-five  degrees,  presents  to  the 
eye  a disproportionate,  awkward,  and  unmeaning  figure,  not  unlike  a blue-handled  jack- 
knife or  razor  with  the  blade  not  quite  opened  to  the  full  extent.  Another  objection  is 
the  disproportion  which  the  lower  white  bar,  extending  the  full  length  of  the  bar,  bears 
to  the  shorter  blue  and  white  bars  above.  Still  another  objection  is  that  the  large  blue 
bar  detracts  from  the  conspicuousness  of  the  blue  cross.  And  still  another  objection 


78  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.— FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


is  the  resemblance  which  the  bars  will  still  have  to  the  Yankee  Flag.  If  for  no  other 
reason  than  this,  we  should  discard  the  bars  and  everything  that  resembles  or  is  sug- 
gestive of  the  old  stripes.  While  we  consider  the  Flag  which  has  been  adopted  by  the 
Senate  as  a very  decided  improved  imitation  of  the  old  United  States  Flag,  we  still 
think  the  Battle  Flag  on  a pure  white  field  would  be  more  appropriate  and  decidedly 
handsomer. 

We  sincerely  hope  that  the  House  will  have  the  good  taste  to  strike  out  the  blue 
bar,  and  give  us  our  glorious  Battle  Flag  on  a pure  white  field.  Such  a Flag  would  be 
a suitable  emblem  of  our  young  Confederacy,  and,  sustained  by  the  brave  hearts  and 
strong  arms  of  the  South,  it  would  soon  take  rank  among  the  proudest  Ensigns  of  the 
nations,  and  be  hailed  by  the  civilized  world  as  “ the  white  man’s  Flag.” 

[Courtesy  of  Colonel  C.  C.  Jones,  jr.,  Augusta,  Ga. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News,  May  4, 1863.] 

The  New  Flag. 

We  are  pleased  to  learn  by  our  dispatch  from  Richmond  that  Congress  has  had 
the  good  taste  to  adopt  for  the  Flag  of  the  Confederacy  the  Battle  Flag  on  a plain 
white  field,  in  lieu  of  the  blue  and  white  bars  proposed  by  the  Senate.  The  Flag  which 
has  been  adopted  is  precisely  the  same  as  that  suggested  by  us  a short  time  since,  and 
is,  in  our  opinion,  much  more  beautiful  and  appropriate  than  either  the  red  and  white 
bars  or  the  white  field  and  blue  bar  adopted  by  the  Senate.  As  a National  Emblem 
it  is  significant  of  our  cause — the  cause  of  a superior  race  and  a higher  civilization 
contending  against  ignorance,  infidelity,  and  barbarism.  Another  merit  in  the  new 
Flag  is  that  it  bears  no  resemblance  to  the  now  infamous  Banner  of  the  Yankee  vandals. 

[Courtesy  of  Colonel  C.  C.  Jones,  jr.,  Augusta,  Ga. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Southern  Illustrated  News,  May  6, 1863. J 

We  have  heretofore  neglected  to  mention  that  the  Committee  on  the  Flag  and  Seal, 
after  two  years  of  herculean  labor,  have  reported.  The  Seal  is  the  equestrian  figure  of 
Washington  on  the  monument  at  Richmond,  and  the  motto,  as  amended  by  the  Senate, 
is  Deo  vindice.  The  Flag  is  the  present  Confederate  Flag,  altered  by  putting  a bar  of 
blue  on  a white  field,  in  place  of  the  red  bars,  and  substituting,  as  the  union,  the  Con- 
federate Battle  Flag  in  place  of  the  circle  of  stars.  The  Seal  meets  with  general  favor  ; 
the  Flag  remains  to  be  tested  by  actual  observation,  after  it  shall  have  been  made  up 
and  given  to  the  breeze. 

[Courtesy  of  Captain  J.  F.  Mayer,  Richmond,  Ya. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  May  8, 1863.] 

“ Raising  the  Standard,”  whether  royal  or  national,  is  a ceremony  frequently  men- 
tioned in  history,  and  in  all  countries  is  performed  on  significant  occasions,  with  some 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  79 


mark  of  honor,  by  a representative  of  the  civil  or  military  power  appointed  for  the 
purpose.  The  Confederate  Congress  lately  passed  a law  for  the  permanent  regulation 
of  our  Ensign.  It  has  been  announced  that  the  authorities  were  preparing  a Standard 
in  accordance  with  the  law,  and  as  soon  as  possible  would  set  up  the  same  on  the  old 
Capitol  of  Virginia,  th^  present  Senate  House  of  the  nation,  with  the  decencies  which 
its  first  solemn  display  demand.  Hence  it  was  remarked  with  displeasure,  on  yesterday 
evening,  that  the  manager  of  a theatre  in  the  city  had  made  haste  to  get  before  the 
Government  and  hoist  his  edition  of  the  Flag  over  his  place  of  amusement.  The  first 
view,  therefore,  of  the  new  Banner  is  in  the  form  of  a clap-trap  advertisement  of  a 
showman.  This  exhibition  is  a most  presumptuous  impertinence;  but  it  is  somewhat 
alleviated  by  the  fact  that  the  Flag  hoisted  is  not  the  Flag  decreed  by  law,  but  an 
abortive  misconception.  In  the  true  National  Standard  the  Battle  Flag  is  not  a mere 
scrap,  like  the  union  of  the?  Federal  Banner;  it  occupies  two-thirds  (not  one-third)  of 
the  whole  width  of  the  Flag.  When  properly  constructed  and  displayed  with  honors 
due  by  the  civil  and  military  authorities  of  the  Southern  Confederacy,  it  will,  we  hope, 
present  a very  noble  and  splendid  appearance. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  May  9, 1863.] 

The  New  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

The  first  Flag  of  the  new  design  adopted  as  the  Standard  of  the  Confederate  States 
of  America  is  now  being  prepared  at  the  Confederate  States  Clothing  Bureau.  A small 
Flag  of  the  same  design  was  raised  on  the  Capitol  on  Wednesday,  and  the  governor  and 
some  citizens,  accidentally  assembled,  pronounced  its  aspect  aloft  as  beautiful,  and 
quite  suggestive  of  cheers.  The  monster  Standard  in  course  of  preparation  will  be 
raised  to  the  staff  on  the  Capitol  early  next  week,  the  elements  permitting.  God  and 
our  victorious  arms  hasten  on  the  day  when  the  new  Standard  of  the  Confederacy  will 
take  its  allotted  place  among  the  “ Flags  of  all  nations,”  and  peace  with  independence 
perched  upon  its  folds. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Dispatch  May  13, 1863.] 

Our  Flag. 


The  new  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States  is  a favorite  design  with  one  of  the  greatest 
leaders  of  our  Army,  as  will  be  seen  from  the  following  dispatch  to  the  honorable  Mr. 
Villere,  of  Louisiana: 

Charleston,  S.  C.,  April  24,  1863. 


Hon.  C.  J.  Villere:  Why  change  our  Battle  Flag,  consecrated  by  the  best  blood 
of  our  country  on  so  many  battle-fields?  A good  design  for  the  National  Flag  would 
be  the  present  Battle  Flag  as  union-jack,  and  the  rest  all  white  or  all  blue. 


G.  T.  BEAUREGARD. 


[See  Plate  VIII,  Part  I.] 


80  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATION'S,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  May  14, 1863.] 

The  New  Flag. 

The  new  Standard  of  the  Confederate  States  was  given  to  an  auspicious  breeze 
yesterday  afternoon  from  the  flag-staff  of  the  Capitol.  In  dimensions  the  Flag  is 
eighteen  feet  by  twenty-four.  A number  of  persons  were  present  and  watched  the  Flag 
as  its  folds  were  given  to  the  breeze.  It  looked  and  floated  well.  All  hail  to  the  Flag ! 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  May  15, 1863.] 

Hoisting  of  tlie  New  Flag  on  the  Capitol. 

On  yesterday  forenoon,  about  10  o’clock,  the  new  Confederate  Flag  was  hoisted 
upon  the  flag-staff  on  the  southern  end  of  the  Capitol  building.  The  operation  was 
unattended  with  any  appropriate  demonstration,  as  anticipated,  and  as  should  have 
been  the  case ; and  it  is  to  be  regretted  that  there  was  not,  since  we  may  have  some 
day  to  number  among  the  incidents  of  our  history  the  hoisting  of  that  Flag  for  the 
first  time  over  the  Capitol  of  the  Confederacy,  and  it  will  read  very  prosily  that  it  was 
drawn  up  and  let  loose  when  nobody  was  looking  at  or  dreaming  about  it.  It  just 
slipped  quietly  into  the  place  of  the  other  old  Flag.  It  was  not  an  event,  as  it  should 
have  been  ; not  a cannon  bade  it  welcome,  not  a voice  Said  “ hurra  1 ” not  a drum  beat. 
Only  the  little  birds  that  twittered  among  the  trees  of  the  square  beheld  the  beautiful 
rag  as  it  fluttered  to  the  breeze.  And  there  it  floats,  like  a cloud  dyed  in  one  corner 
with  the  gorgeous  coloring  of  the  red  sunshine,  without  the  prestige  of  a “ bravo”  of 
welcome  in  its  infancy,  or  the  recollection  of  a brass-band  to  hang  round  its  folds  in 
the  great  days  of  its  futurity. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  May  15, 1863.] 

The  Ne>v  Confederate  States  Standard. 

The  new  design  of  a National  Flag,  adopted  by  the  Confederate  Congress,  was 
again  displayed  from  the  Capitol  yesterday,  and  met  the  approving  gaze  of  thousands. 
We  have  received  from  Mr.  D.  S.  Morrison,  the  superintendent  of  the  manufacture  of 
Flags  for  the  Government,  the  following  dimensions  of  the  Flag,  which  dimensions  have 
been  approved  by  the  Committee  on  the  National  Ensign.  They  may  be  regarded  as 
the  standard  measurement  for  all  similar  Flags  hereafter:  Length,  twenty- four  feet; 
width,  sixteen  feet,  or  two-thirds  of  the  length  ; union,  ten  feet  eight  inches  square,  or 
two-thirds  of  the  width  ; saltier,  eighteen  inches  wide  ; white  edging,  two  and  a quarter 
inches  in  width  ; stars,  fifteen  inches  from  point  to  point,  placed  twenty  inches  apart 
from  centre  to  centre  ; bending,  six  inches  in  width  ; rope,  two  inches  in  diameter,  and 
sixteen  feet  six  inches  long. 

Henceforth,  down  with  the  Stars  and  Stripes,  and  up  with  the  cross  and  white  field. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  81 

[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Examiner,  May  16, 1S63.] 

The  Flag. 

The  new  Flag,  which  was  displayed  from  the  Capitol  on  Thursday,  it  is  gratifying 
to  say,  gives  universal  satisfaction.  Almost  any  sort  of  a Flag,  to  take  the  place  of 
the  detested  parody  upon  the  “ Stars  and  Stripes,”  for  so  long  the  lawful  Ensign  of  the 
Confederacy,  would  have  been  hailed  with  pleasure,  but  the  one  we  now  have  is  not  only 
acceptable  on  this  ground,  but  on  account  of  its  own  appropriateness  : and  more  than  this, 
again,  because  in  it  is  preserved  that  immortal  Banner — the  Battle  Flag — which  has 
been  consecrated  on  so  many  battle-fields,  and  has  been  followed  by  our  soldiers  to  so 
many  glorious  victories.  We  had  not  anticipated,  from  the  action  of  Congress  upon 
the  subject,  a result  so  sensible,  so  generally  satisfactory.  The  counsels  of  many  on 
such  a topic  rarely  produce  anything  but  an  abortion,  such  as  the  “-Stars  and  Bars,” 
for  instance.  Let  us  have  no  more  of  that,  but  hereafter  know  only  that  appropriate 
and  beautiful  Banner  hallowed  by  our  victories  and  now  established  by  law. 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  May  16,  1863.] 

The  Confederate  Seal. 

After  two  years  of  delay  and  halting  of  opinion,  Congress  eventually  adopted  a 
design  for  a Confederate  Seal — a design,  simplex  munditiis , comprehensive  in  all  par- 
ticulars, and  thoroughly  emblematic  of  our  nation. 

As  yet,  however,  no  steps  whatever  have  been  taken  towards  having  the  Seal 
engraved.  There  are  very  many  applications  not  to  do  the  work,  but  have  it  done, 
thus  endeavoring  to  make  the  job  a matter  of  speculation.  One  man,  however,  an 
engraver,  living  in  Richmond,  offers  to  do  the  work  for  a nominal  value  rather  than  it 
should  be  sent  out  of  the  country.  This  engraver  is  J.  C.  Baumgarten,  who  has  done 
nearly  all  the  Government  engraving  since  the  commencement  of  the  war.  To  the 
writer’s  personal  knowledge,  he  was  offered  the  position  of  “ engraver  of  coin”  to  the 
public  authorities  of  Berlin,  in  Europe,  but  refused  to  leave  America.  When  the  war 
broke  out,  although  he  had  done  a great  portion  of  the  engraving  for  the  Washington 
Government,  he  immediately  left  and  cast  his  fortunes  with  the  South.  That  the  man 
is  a good  engraver,  there  is  no  doubt,  and  yet  the  Secretary  of  State  hesitates  to  allow 
him  even  to  make  a temporary  Seal,  but  thinks  seriously  of  having  it  done  in  England. 

It  is,  however,  a small  matter  as  to  who  does  the  work,  so  it  is  well  done,  but  it 
will  be  a stigma  on  Southern  talent  and  Southern  enterprise  to  so  lower  ourselves  in 
the  eyes  of  nations  as  to  send  far  across  the  water,  to  those  who  hate  us  for  our  assertion 
of  independence,  to  have  engraved  a Seal  for  the  Confederate  States.  It  would  be  just 
as  sensible  to  send  over  a pattern  for  a Flag,  and  wait  six  months  before  the  National 
Ensign  could  float  from  our  Capitol,  simply  because  we  wanted  it  made  in  Europe. 
Then  let  us  have  the  work  done  here,  when  and  where  it  can  be  done,  and  done  well ; 
for  if  we  once  begin  this  farce  of  sending  to  Europe,  there  will  be  no  end  to  it,  and 
instead  of  gaining  an  independence,  we  shall  be  dependent  forever. 


82  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  May  18, 1863.] 

Editor  Examiner  : In  your  widely- circulated  journal  of  the  29th  ultimo  is  an 
editorial  which,  however  indirectly,  friends  have  judged  to  allude  to  me.  I have  not, 
however,  deemed  it  proper  to  notice  the  ungenerous  and  groundless  strictures  which 
look  to  me  until  after  the  matter  to  which  they  refer  had  been  finally  settled  by  Con- 
gress. In  reference  to  the  executed  design  of  the  Seal  of  the  Confederate  States,  it  is 
said  : “We  were  not  surprised  to  learn  that  so  soon  as  the  report  was  confirmed  by  the 
Senate,  the  drawing  was  to  be  forwarded  to  New  York,  where  the  Seals  were  to  be 
engraved  in  brass  and  steel,  and  a pretty  penny  put  in  the  pocket  of  the  enterprising 
runner  who  has  an  eye  to  the  job.”  In  another  part  of  the  same  article  we  read  : 
“As  to  the  mechanical  execution,  there  is  in  this  town  an  engraver  (Baumgarten)  at 
least  equal  to  any  in  the  United  States,  who  can  do  as  good  work,  when  paid  for  the 
time,  as  any  we  have  ever  seen  from  New  York.” 

Being,  so  far  as  informed,  the  only  competitor  of  Mr.  Baumgarten  in  the  matter 
of  a Seal,  and  believing  that  the  injurious  suggestion  respecting  the  runner  “who  has 
an  eye  to  the  job  ” came  from  that  gentleman,  I desire  the  privilege  of  saying,  briefly : 

First.  I have  always  said,  and  I still  believe,  that  the  “job”  must  and  should  be 
executed  in  Europe,  say  in  France,  which  has  at  least  evinced  some  sympathy  for  our 
cause.  In  this  original  conception,  I am  glad  to  find  that  I am  sustained  by  your  own 
judgment,  which  a long  residence  abroad  and  a mature  taste  in  such  things  authorized 
you  to  express.  * 

Second.  I beg  you  to  be  assured  that  I am  no  ninner,  and  never  was,  unless  running 
after  the  Yankees  in  the  first  battle  of  Manassas,  in  which  I endeavored  to  do  my  duty 
as  a soldier  of  the  Confederacy,  should  have  given  me  a right  to  the  title.  I left  family, 
home,  and  pursuits  in  the  District  of  Columbia,  when  the  war  was  forced  upon  the 
South,  cheerfully  to  join  the  Confederate  Army,  in  which  I served  and  fought  for  fifteen 
months. 

FRANCIS  LA  BARRE. 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News,  May  19, 18G3.] 

The  New  Confederate  Flag. 

We  are  pleased  to  observe  that  the  new  Confederate  States  Standard,  wherever  it 
has  been  given  to  the  breeze,  elicits  the  admiration  of  the  press  and  people.  Noticing 
its  display  from  the  Capitol  at  Richmond,  the  Examiner  says : “ It  met  the  approving 
gaze  of  thousands.” 

The  Dispatch  says:  “The  new  Flag,  which  was  displayed  from  the  Capitol  on 
Thursday,  it  is  gratifying  to  say,  gives  universal  satisfaction.  Almost  any  sort  of  a 
Flag,  to  take  the  place  of  the  detested  parody  upon  the  ‘ Stars  and  Stripes,’  for  so  long 
the  lawful  Ensign  of  the  Confederacy,  would  have  been  hailed  with  pleasure,  but  the 
one  we  now  have  is  not  only  acceptable  on  this  ground,  but  on  account  of  its  own 
appropriateness;  and  more  than  this,  again,  because  in  it  is  preserved  that  immortal 
Banner — the  Battle  Flag — which  has  been  consecrated  on  so  many  battle-fields,  and  has 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  88 

been  followed  by  our  soldiers  to  so  many  glorious  victories.  We  had  not  anticipated, 
from  the  action  of  Congress  upon  the  subject,  a result  so  sensible,  so  generally  satis- 
factory. The  counsels  of  many  on  such  a topic  rarely  produce  anything  but  abortion, 
such  as  the  ‘Stars  and  Bars,’  for  instance.  Let  us  have  no  more  of  that,  but  hereafter 
know  only  that  appropriate  and  beautiful  Banner  hallowed  by  our  victories  and  now 
established  by  law.” 

The  Charleston  Mercury  of  yesterday  says:  “The  new  Confederate  Flag  was  yes- 
terday thrown  to  the  breeze  from  the  ramparts  of  Fort  Sumter,  and  was  admired  by 
crowds  on  the  battery.” 

[Courtesy  of  Colonel  C.  C.  Jones,  jr.,  Augusta,  Ga. — K.  r.  T.] 


[From  the  Savannah  (Ga.)  Morning  News,  May  23, 1863.J 

Our  Flag. 

The  Atlanta  Intelligencer  says  : “The  design  for  a Flag  for  the  Confederate  States 
has  justly  been  left  a mooted  question  for  more  than  two  years  ; at  last  it  is  decided, 
and  the  whole  South  is  satisfied.  In  the  new  Flag  is  preserved  the  Battle  Flag,  the 
invention  of  Beauregard  and  Johnston — an  invention  which  necessity  forced  upon  these 
Confederate  commanders  soon  after  the  first  battle  of  Manassas.  In  addition  to  this, 
there  is  nothing  but  the  white  Flag. 

“ Our  old  Flag  always  awakens  unpleasant  reminiscences;  it  bears  too  striking  a 
resemblance  to  the  emblem  of  tyranny,  the  ‘ StTars  and  Stripes.’  As  it  was  this 
resemblance  which  caused  it  at  first  to  be  adopted,  so  also  it  was  this  that  caused  it  to 
be  rejected,  and  in  actual  use  on  the  battle-field  it  has  never  been  employed,  except  in 
the  very  first  battles. 

“ We  therefore  hail  our  new  Flag  with  joy.  Every  star,  every  color,  is  sacred  and 
endeared  to  our  heart  and  to  the  hearts  of  our  whole  people.  The  people  will  rally  to 
it ; it  will  awaken  emotions  far  beyond  the  power  of  utterance  when  this  cruel  and 
iniquitous  war  is  over.  It  was  a creature  itself  of  the  revolution,  born  amidst  strife 
and  bloodshed,  and  it  will  remain  an  emblem  to  coming  generations  of  the  valor  and 
the  virtue  of  our  people.  The  large  predominance  of  the  color — white — can  never  be 
mistaken,  as  alluding  to  the  Christian  leniency  with  which  we  have  treated  our  enemies 
at  all  times ; the  red  Battle  Flag  will  tell  a tale  of  the  heroism  of  our  soldiers  on  which 
the  nations  of  the  earth  will  hang  with  breathless  attention.” 

[Communicated.] 

The  Flag. 

Mr.  Editor:  You  are  one  of  the  admirers  of  the  new  Flag,  and  you  copied  into 
yesterday’s  News  a very  enthusiastic  panegyric  of  it  from  the  Richmond  Examiner. 
But  I doubt  if  either  you  or  the  editor  of  the  Examiner  has  yet  seen  the  Flag  which 
was  established  by  law.  The  picture  in  your  office  (which  is  very  beautiful)  is  not  cor- 
rect, nor  have  I seen  one  of  the  several  which  are  in  use  in  and  around  this  city  which 


84  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 


is  proportioned  according  to  the  law.  If  there  was  such  a one  it  would  be  an  absurdity. 
The  law  (as  published  in  the  Savannah  Republican ) makes  the  Flag  twice  as  long  as  it 
is  wide.  Well,  if  the  Flag  is  three  feet  wide,  it  must,  then,  be  six  feet  long.  In  this  the 
union  would  be  two  feet  square,  and  would  occupy  two-thirds  of  the  width  and  two- 
thirds  of  the  length.  This  would  leave  a very  large  field  of  white  and  give  good  grounds 
for  the  objection  urged  against  the  Flag,  that  it  looks  like  a Flag  of  truce.  I think  that 
large  field  of  white  was  the  result  of  an  accident.  The  Senate  placed  through  the 
middle  of  the  white  a horizontal  bar  of  blue,  and  the  Flag  was  made  long  in  order  to 
exhibit  this  blue  bar  to  advantage.  When  the  blue  bar  was  stricken  out,  the  Flag 
should  have  been  shortened,  but  in  the  haste  consequent  upon  the  near  approach  of  the 
close  of  the  session  it  was  overlooked.  All  we  can  do,  under  the  circumstances,  is  to 
make  our  Flags  in  the  proper  proportion  (like  the  one  in  your  picture),  and  trust  to  the 
next  Congress  either  to  restore  the  blue  bar  or  curtail  the  quantity  of  white. 

R. 

Our  correspondent’s  objections  to  dimensions  or  proportions  of  the  Flag  as  defined 
by  the  law,  as  published,  are  well  founded.  His  suggestion,  as  an  alternative,  to 
“restore  the  blue  bar,”  is,  we  think,  in  bad  taste.  The  intention  of  the  law  was  not 
so  much  to  prescribe  the  dimensions  of  the  new  Flag  as  to  determine  its  combinations. 
The  design  of  Congress  was  to  establish  by  law  as  the  Confederate  Ensign  the  “ Battle 
Flag”  on  a white  field,  which  we  think  is  significant,  appropriate,  and  beautiful.  The 
proportion  of  the  union  to  the  width  of  the  Flag  is  very  properly  defined,  but  the 
length  of  the  Flag,  like  that  of  any  other  Flag,  will  be  determined  by  good  taste. 

Speaking  of  the  new  Flag,  we  omitted  to  mention  that  it  has  been  displayed  by 
Captain  Cercopuly  on  the  steamer  “Beauregard”  for  several  days.  If  our  corre- 
spondent, R.,  will  take  a look  at  the  well-proportioned  Flag  now  flying  from  the  flag- 
staff of  that  steamer,  we  think  he  will  at  once  ground  all  objections  to  the  new  Ensign, 
which  is  tasteful  as  it  is  unique,  and  significant  as  it  is  simple.  As  the  symbol  of  the 
white  man’s  cause,  long  may  it  float  in  triumph  over  a virtuous,  free,  and  chivalric 
people. 

In  this  connection,  we  may  mention  that  Captain  Cercopuly  has  been  presented  by 
General  Beauregard  with  a handsome  union-jack  or  Battle  Flag,  we  presume  in 
acknowledgment  of  the  compliment  paid  the  latter  by  Captain  Cercupoly  in  naming 
his  steamer  the  “ Beauregard.”  This  beautiful  union  flies  at  the  stern  of  the  “ Beau- 
regard,” and  will  be  borne  as  proudly  and  bravely  by  Captain  Cercopuly  on  his  new 
steamer  as  was  the  first  Confederate  Flag  borne  by  him  on  the  little  “ Ida  ” in  defiance 
of  the  shot  and  shells  of  the  Yankees. 

[Courtesy  of  Colonel  C.  C.  Jones,  jr.,  Augusta,  Ga. — E.  P.  T.J 


[From  the  Bichmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  August  17, 1863.] 

A Reminiscence  of  tlie  Raising  the  First  Confederate  Flag  over  the  Capitol,  in  Montgomery,  Ala. 

“ God  bless  our  Flag !”  I heard  this  whisper  low 
Come  from  the  lips  of  one  in  earnest  prayer, 

Who  stood  beneath  its  folds,  while,  firm  and  slow, 

She  loosed  its  streaming  beauties  to  the  air. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  85 


The  eyes  of  the  vast  multitude  below 

Were  fixed  upon  “our  Flag,”  as  one  by  one 
Its  soft  folds  open’d  in  the  noonday  glow 
And  floated  in  the  radiance  of  the  sun. 

Loud  roar’d  the  cannon  as  the  silk  unfurl’d, 

While  hills  and  valleys  back  the  echo  throw, 

Speaking  a nation’s  freedom  to  the  world, 

And  proud  defiance  to  an  abject  foe. 

Each  patriot  eye  gleam’d  wildly  at  the  sight, 

Each  patriot  voice  rang  wildly  on  the  air, 

As  the  proud  symbol  of  a nation’s  right 
Was  borne  upon  the  breeze  in  beauty  rare. 

And  there  * Virginia’s  child  ! I see  thee  now, 

With  the  bright  tresses  of  thy  golden  hair 
Like  a soft  halo  round  thy  radiant  brow, 

Thine  eye  upturn’d  in  supplicating  prayer. 

To  thee  by  Freedom’s  messenger  ’twas  given 
To  raise  that  Standard  with  thy  virgin  hand, 

Thy  lips  imploring  from  our  God  in  Heaven 
A blessing  on  our  Flag,  our  cause,  our  land. 

Culpeper  County,  Va.  * 

Steamer  “ Cornubia,” 

Wilmington,  N.  C.,  August  20,  1863. 

Hon.  C.  G.  Memminger, 

Secretary  of  the  Treasury. 

Sir:  Herewith  please  find  express  company’s  receipt  for  a box,  covered  with 
canvas,  said  to  contain  a Confederate  States  Seal,  brought  over  in  steamer  “ Cornubia  ” 
from  Bermuda,  in  charge  of  Lieutenant  Wm.  C.  Whittle,  C.  S.  N.,  who  left  it  to  be 
sent  by  express.  I would  be  pleased  to  be  advised  of  its  safe  arrival. 

I have  the  honor  to  be,  your  obedient  servant, 

J.  T.  GORDON, 

Purser  Confederate  States  Steamer  “Cornubia." 


[From  the  Southern  Punch,  February  20, 18G4.J 

Our  Beautiful  Flag. 

Mr.  Henry,  of  Tennessee,  introduced  a bill  to  amend  the  act  to  establish  the  Flag 
of  the  Confederate  States.  Mr.  H.  remarked  that  he  did  not  desire  action  upon  the 
bill  at  this  session.  It  had  been  framed  by  an  officer  of  the  Army,  who  believed  that 
the  beauty  and  heraldic  significance  of  the  Flag  would  be  improved  by  an  outer  border 
or  bar  of  blue  to  the  white  field.  [Report  of  Congressional  proceedings.] 

We  trust  Congress  will  refuse  to  add  any  gingerbread  decorations  to  the  Flag.  This 
“blue  outer  border”  man-millinery  is  on  a par  with  the  “blue  bar”  suggested  while 
the  Flag  was  under  consideration. 

* Miss  Letitia  Tyler,  granddaughter  of  the  honored  and  lamented  ex-President  Tyler. 


86  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

As  the  Flag  flies,  it  is  simple,  beautiful,  and  imposing. 

The  proposition  of  an  “officer  in  the  Army,”  if  carried  into  effect,  would  make 
the  Flag  resemble  those  sentimental  Banners  presented  by  young  ladies  to  volunteer 
companies  at  the  commencement  of  the  war.  Let  the  B’lag  alone. 

[Courtesy  of  Ca.pt.  J.  F.  Mayer,  Richmond,  Ya. — R.  P.  T.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Sentinel,  November  3, 1SG4.] 

To  the  World  Below  and  My  God  Above. 

I have  traveled  through  both  Northern  and  Southern  camps,  since  this  war  com- 
menced, as  impartially  as  the  sun  has  shone  upon  them,  and  I see  now  a great  restless- 
ness among  the  soldiers,  on  both  sides,  to  be  at  home  with  father,  mother,  sister,  wife, 
or  to  join  sweetheart  in  matrimony. 

Will  those  in  high  places  agree  to  let  them  return,  if  I will  submit  a just  and  an 
equal  compromise?  Well,  I will  suggest  this : That  each  President  shall  resign  his 
position  ; then  I will  take  the  place  of  both,  and  forthwith  disband  both  armies  and 
send  every  living  negro  home  to  his  Southern  master,  and  then  proceed  to  settle  up 
the  affairs  of  the  Government,  both  Federal  and  State. 

I propose  to  sell  all  internal  improvements,  and  let  them  fall  into  the  hands  of 
individuals,  and  then  change  the  banking  system,  basing  it  on  real  estate ; do  away 
with  all  national  and  State  legislation,  and  thereby  free  the  country  from  all  future 
curses;  throw  open  our  ports,  and  thereby  connect  the  world  by  free  commerce,  and 
bring  about  a universal  brotherhood. 

I have  a new  Flag  to  present  to  both  sections,  which  will,  ere  long,  be  adopted  by 
the  world,  to  wit : One  to  be  painted  on  the  most  beautiful  sky-blue  silk,  the  bright 
morning  sun  appearing  on  one  corner,  the  silver  moon  on  the  other,  the  intervening 
span  dotted  with  the  brightest  stars,  a beautiful  virgin  standing  on  the  bottom,  repre- 
senting Virginia,  the  Eden  of  this  globe,  now  almost  desolate,  but  will,  ere  long,  like 
Lazarus,  be  called  up  to  preside  at  the  love-feast. 

The  Scriptures  are  now  fulfilled,  with  one  exception.  The  time  will  come  when 
the  battle-blade  shall  be  beaten  into  the  plowshare  and  pruning-hook.  One  spirit  shall 
pervade  every  bosom,  not  one  having  to  say  to  another  “ Know  ye  the  Lord?”  for  we 
shall  all  know  him,  from  the  smallest  to  the  greatest.  Let  it  speedily  set  in.  If  there 
is  a man  on  either  side  that  wishes  this  inglorious,  unholy,  and  cruel  war  to  last  any 
longer,  he  will  please  give  his  name  to  the  public  and  call  on  me  for  a fight.  His  time, 
place,  and  weapon  shall  be  mine. 

Very  respectfully,  L.  L.  LEE, 

Of  Prince  George,  Ya. 

P.  S. — If  the  two  Presidents,  with  their  respective  Cabinets,  will  meet  between 
the  fortifications  below  Petersburg,  Va.,  I will  lecture  them  on  the  subjects  of  Abolition 
and  Secession,  and  show  them  that  the  God  of  Heaven  and  a majority  of  the  people 
are  opposed  to  both. 

L.  L.  LEE. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  87 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Sentinel,  December  14, 1864.] 

Improvement  to  the  Flag. 

We  have  before  us  an  engraved  copy  of  the  “proposed  Confederate  Flag,”  pro- 
vided for  by  the  bill  introduced  into  the  Senate,  on  yesterday,  by  Senator  Semmes.  It 
differs  from  the  Flag,  as  now  existing,  chiefly  in  having  a bar  of  red  at  the  edge  of  the 
Flag.  The  effect  is  to  relieve  the  Flag  of  its  excess  of  white,  and  impart  to  it  more 
warmth  and  richness  of  expression.  The  proposed  model  is  the  design  of  an  officer  in 
the  Army,  and  is  highly  approved  by  many  officers  of  taste  and  position,  whose  letters 
we  have  seen.  It  is  particularly  commended  by  naval  officers,  whose  judgment  in  such 
matters  is  always  considered  entitled  to  peculiar  consideration. 

[See  Plate  XI,  Part  I.] 

[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Enquirer,  December  29, 18G4.] 

Hymn  to  the  National  Flag. 

Air — “Harwell.” 

BY  MRS.  M.  J.  PRESTON,  OF  LEXINGTON,  YA. 

Float  aloft,  thou  stainless  Banner, 

Azure  cross  and  field  of  light ; 

Be  thy  brilliant  stars  the  symbol 
Of  the  pure  and  true  and  right. 

Shelter  Freedom’s  holy  cause, 

Liberty  and  sacred  laws ; 

Guard  the  youngest  of  the  nations — 

Keep  her  virgin  honor  bright. 

From  Virginia’s  storied  border 
Down  to  Tampa’s  farthest  shore ; 

From  the  blue  Atlantic’s  flashings 
To  the  Rio  Grande’s  roar ; 

Over  many  a crimson  plain, 

Where  our  martyr’d  ones  lie  slain, 

Fling  abroad  thy  blessed  shelter — 

Stream  and  mount  and  valley  o’er. 

In  thy  cross  of  heavenly  azure 
Has  our  faith  its  emblem  high  ; 

In  thy  field  of  white,  the  hallow’d 
Truth  for  which  we’ll  dare  and  die ; 

In  thy  red  the  patriot  blood — 

Ah ! the  consecrated  flood. 

Lift  thyself,  resistless  Banner ! 

Ever  fill  our  Southern  sky ! 

Flash  with  living,  lightning  motion, 

In  the  sight  of  all  the  brave, 

Till  the  price  at  which  we  purchased 
Room  and  right  for  thee  to  wave 
Freely  in  our  God’s  free  air. 

Pure  and  proud  and  stainless,  fair — 

Banner  of  the  youngest  nation, 

Banner  we  would  die  to  save ! 

Strike  Thou  for  us,  King  of  armies; 

Grant  us  room  in  Thy  broad  world  ; 

Loosen  all  the  despot’s  fetters — 

Back  be  all  his  legions  hurled  ! 

Give  us  peace  and  liberty  ! 

Let  the  laud  we  love  be  free — 

Then,  oh  ! bright  and  stainless  Banner, 

Never  shall  thy  folds  be  furled. 


88  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC.- — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Examiner,  February  G,  1865.] 

The  Confederate  Flag  of  the  new  design,  now  before  Congress  for  its  adoption  as 
the  National  Ensign,  was  displayed  from  the  south  end  of  the  Capitol  on  Saturday. 
The  feature  distinguishing  it  from  the  old  design  is  a bar  of  red  which  edges  the  long 
table-cloth  like  field  of  white. 

[See  Plate  XI,  Part  I.] 


[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig, "February  11, 1SG5.] 

The  New  Confederate  Flag. 

We  give  below  an  interesting  letter  from  Major  Rogers,  the  designer  of  the  new 
Confederate  Flag  which  has  been  floating  over  the  Capitol  for  a day  or  two  past.  We 
give  it  not  only  for  the  interesting  character  of  the  document,  but  also  as  a page  in  the 
history  of  our  country’s  struggle.  The  bill  adopting  the  new  design  has  passed  the 
Senate  unanimously,  and  is  now  before  the  Committee  on  Flag  and  Seal  of  the  House, 
composed  of  Messrs.  Chilton,  of  Alabama;  Rives,  of  Virginia;  and  Chambers,  of 
Mississippi : 

Chaffin’s  Bluff,  January  2,  1865. 

Hon.  Edward  Sparrow, 

Chairman  Committee  on  Military  Affairs , C.  S.  Senate. 

General  : While  disabled  for  active  service,  I have  employed  a portion  of  my 
leisure  in  trying  to  improve  our  National  Flag,  and,  after  much  attention  to  the  subject 
and  the  laws  of  heraldry,  have  submitted  a design  to  Congress,  which  was  introduced 
into  the  Senate  on  the  13tli  ultimo,  by  Mr.  Semmes,  of  Louisiana.  The  bill  which  I 
have  drawn  is  as  follows : 

“A  BILL  to  establish  the  Flag  of  the  Confederate  States. 

“The  Congress  of  the  Confederate  States  of  America  do  enact,  That  the  Flag  of 
the  Confederate  States  shall  be  as  follows : The  width  two-thirds  of  its  length,  with  the 
union  (now  used  as  the  Battle  Flag)  to  be  in  width  three-fifths  of  the  width  of  the 
Flag,  and  so  proportioned  as  to  leave  the  length  of  the  field  on  the  side  of  the  union 
twice  the  width  below  it ; to  have  the  ground  red,  and  a broad,  blue  saltier  thereon, 
bordered  with  white  and  emblazoned  with  mullets  or  five-pointed  stars,  corresponding 
in  number  to  that  of  the  Confederate  States  ; the  field  to  be  white,  except  the  outer 
half  from  the  union,  which  shall  be  a red  bar  extending  the  width  of  the  Flag.” 

Before  offering  the  bill,  that  gentleman  addressed  a letter  to  the  commander  of 
the  Army  of  Northern  Virginia,  requesting  his  views  in  regard  to  the  proposed  altera- 
tion. General  Lee  replied  that  he  thought  it  “ very  pretty,”  and  that  it  certainly  added 
distinctness  to  the  Flag;  but,  with  his  usual  modesty,  said  he  mistrusted  his  own  judg- 
ment in  such  matters,  and  that  the  “ naval  gentlemen  ” were  the  proper  persons  to  be 
consulted.  The  bill  was  accordingly  referred  to  the  Committee  on  Naval  Affairs,  and, 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  89 


after  various  plans  were  submitted  and  the  opinions  of  leading  officers  of  our  Navy 
obtained,  said  committee  unanimously  recommended  its  adoption.  On  your  suggestion 
that  it  would  be  well  to  have  the  opinions  of  other  officers  of  the  Army  on  the  subject, 
the  bill  was,  on  motion  of  Mr.  Brown,  of  Mississippi,  referred  to  the  Committee  on 
Military  Affairs,  and  I now  have  the  honor  to  submit  herewith  to  your  consideration 
the  letters  I have  received  from  General  Joseph  E.  Johnston,  General  S.  Cooper, 
Lieutenaut  General  Ewell,  Lieutenant  General  Longstreet’s  inspector  general;  Major 
Generals  Fitz  Lee,  Rosser,  and  Lomax,  of  cavalry,  Brigadier  Generals  Pendleton  and 
Long,  of  artillery;  Colonel  Crutchfield,  Stonewall  Jackson’s  chief  of  artillery;  Major 
General  Heth,  Major  General  Smith,  governor  of  Virginia,  and  Major  General  Smith, 
superintendent  of  Virginia  Military  Institute  ; Captain  N.  W.  Barker,  acting  chief  of 
Signal  Bureau,  and  Captain  Wilbourn,  of  Signal  Corps ; Brigadier  General  Wharton, 
Colonel  J.  S.  Mosby,  and  many  other  distinguished  officers  of  the  Army,  all  approving 
this  design,  which,  with  such  letters  as  have  been  addressed  to  you  on  the  subject,  will 
furnish  your  committee  with  the  desired  information.  Allow  me,  General,  to  add  a 
few  words  on  the  merits  of  the  proposed  alteration.  Under  the  present  act  of  Con- 
gress, the  proportions  of  the  Flag  are  incorrect,  the  length  being  double  the  width, 
which  is  against  all  rule,  and  a Flag  so  made  will  not  float.  The  one  now  used  over 
the  Capitol  is  not  according  to  law  ; but  it  is  correctly  proportioned,  having  the  width 
two-thirds  of  the  length.  So  that  the  proportions,  at  least,  will  have  to  be  changed, 
and  while  under  amendment,  it  is  proposed  to  improve  the  field  of  the  Flag  also.  It 
has  been  ascertained  by  practical  use  in  the  Army  and  Navy  that  our  Flag  is  very  easily 
soiled,  from  its  excessive  whiteness,  and  it  is  especially  liable  to  this  objection  on  steam- 
vessels,  which  are  rapidly  superseding  all  other  ships  of  war.  The  portion  of  the  Flag 
proposed  to  be  changed  to  a red  bar  is  the  part,  too,  most  readily  defaced.  It  is 
strongly  urged  by  naval  officers  of  high  standing  that  our  Flag  is  liable  to  be  mistaken 
for  a Flag  of  truce,  particularly  in  a calm,  when  it  hangs  dead  against  the  mast,  and 
the  union  is  obscured  by  the  white  bunting.  When  seen  at  a distance,  Flags  are  gen- 
erally displayed  against  the  white  clouds  beyond,  and  hence  want  of  distinctness  is  a 
great  defect  in  the  present  Flag,  the  union  being  the  only  portion  seen.  Besides  these 
capital  objections  to  it,  the  Flag  is  so  tame  looking  that  it  excites  no  emotion  in  the 
hearts  of  our  people,  and  looks  more  like  a white  table-cloth,  with  a colored  patch  in 
one  corner,  than  the  Ensign  of  a great  nation  such  as  ours  is  destined  to  be.  Conse- 
quently, we  have  not  become  attached  to  it,  as  we  should  have  done  by  this  time  had 
the  colors  been  more  striking.  It  was  hurriedly  adopted,  at  the  very  close  of  a session 
of  the  last  Congress,  as  the  best  they  could  do  under  the  multiplicity  of  plans  submitted, 
and  when  the  contest  really  was  whether  the  Battle  Flag  should  form  part  of  it.  See 
accompanying  letter  from  Colonel  A.  R.  Boteler,  chairman  of  the  Committee  on  Flag 
and  Seal  of  last  Congress,  in  favor  of  this  amendment,  I respectfully  submit  that  the 
bill  before  the  Senate  removes  all  the  objections  urged  against  the  Confederate  Flag. 
It  gives  it  correctness  of  proportion,  distinctness,  and  character;  renders  it  fit  for 
practical  use,  and  presents  a beautiful  Standard,  which,  under  no  circumstances,  can 
be  mistaken  for  a Flag  of  truce  or  the  Flag  of  any  other  nation  on  earth.  It  relieves 
the  Flag  of  its  pale-faced  appearance,  and  makes  it  look  more  martial.  The  Battle 
Flag,  selected  by  General  Johnston  and  recommended  by  himself  and  General  Beaure- 


90  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

gard,  and  under  which  so  much  blood  has  been  spilled  in  our  struggle  for  independence, 
is  fully  displayed  as  the  union  in  the  proposed  Flag,  which  can  only  be  done  by  sur- 
rounding it  with  white,  and  the  red  bar,  forming  the  outer  half  of  the  field  from  the 
union,  is  suggested  as  the  best  design  for  its  improvement.  I am  opposed  to  all  stripes, 
many  or  few,  red  or  blue  ; for,  besides  the  resemblance,  they  would  make  our  Flag 
answer  to  the  common  description  of  the  now  degraded  badge  of  the  basest  of  tyran- 
nies, “the  Stars  and  Stripes.” 

The  colors  of  the  new  Flag  would  be  chiefly  white  and  red,  with  as  little  as  possible 
of  the  Yankee  blue.  The  heraldic  significance  of  these  colors  is  deemed  especially 
appropriate  for  the  Confederate  States,  the  white  (argent)  being  emblematic  of  purity 
and  innocence,  and  the  red  (gules)  of  fortitude  and  courage.  In  the  adoption  of 
Ensigns  by  the  principal  nations  of  the  world,  it  is  noticed  by  Captain  Hamilton,  in  his 
History  of  the  United  States  Flag,  that  they  generally  imitate  the  Ensigns  of  the  nations 
from  which  they  sprung.  This  rule  is  complied  with  in  the  Flag  as  proposed,  for  our 
people  are  chiefly  descended  from  the  British  and  French,  and  we  get  the  union  and 
the  cross  of  St.  Andrew  from  the  former,  and  the  red  bar  from  the  Flag  of  the  latter 
nation,  while  the  idea  of  having  stars  to  represent  the  States  respectively  is  taken  from 
the  Flag  of  the  old  Union,  mainly  founded  by  our  forefathers.  The  new  Flag  is  easily 
made,  and  is  without  the  complication  of  any  painting,  which,  besides  the  difficulty  of 
correct  execution,  soon  rots  the  bunting.  The  proportions,  while  most  pleasing  to  the 
eye,  possess  the  virtue  of  simplicity,  the  white  below  and  on  side  of  the  union  being 
same  width  as  the  red  bar.  They  have  been  approved  by  some  of  the  best  artists  in 
the  Confederacy,  and,  after  careful  examination,  have  been  pronounced  correct  by 
some  of  the  most  experienced  officers  of  the  Navy,  such  as  Commodore  Forrest, 
Captain  Raphael  Semmes,  Captain  8.  S.  Lee,  Captain  Mason,  Captain  W.  H.  Parker 
(the  latter  being  at  the  head  of  the  Confederate  States  Naval  Academy).  Your  com- 
mittee has  been  furnished  by  the  Quartermaster  General  with  a model  Flag,  made  in 
strict  accordance  therewith.  It  may  be  proper  to  add,  that  this  improvement  of  the 
Flag  is  advocated  by  almost  the  entire  Richmond  press.  I hope  it  will  be  the  pleasure 
of  your  committee  to  recommend  the  passage  of  the  bill,  and  that  it  will  be  adopted 
by  Congress  in  time  for  the  signature  of  the  President — who  has  expressed  his  approval 
of  it — on  the  22d  of  February,  1865,  in  order  that  it  may  become  a law  on  the  anni- 
versary of  the  birthday  of  the  great  Virginian  who  was  the  father  of  his  country  and 
the  chief  author  of  his  country’s  Flag,*  and  the  anniversary  of  the  day  which  gave 
birth  to  the  permanent  Government  of  the  Confederate  States. 

I am,  General,  most  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

ARTH.  L.  ROGERS, 

Major  C.  S.  Artillery. 

[See  Plate  XI,  Part  I.] 


* The  basis  of  the  Flag  of  the  United  States  was  “ the  great  Union  Flag  ” displayed  by  General  Washing- 
ton on  Prospect  Hill,  “in  compliment,”  as  he  said,  “to  the  United  Colonies,”  on  the  2d  day  of  January,  1776, 
the  day  of  forming  the  new  Continental  Army.  On  the  evacuation  of  Boston  by  the  British  this  Standard  was 
carried  into  the  city  by  the  American  troops.  It  was  the  union  of  the  crosses  of  St.  George  and  St.  Andrew, 
with  thirteen  stripes  through  the  field  of  the  Flag,  alternate  red  and  white. — Hamilton's  History  U.  S.  Flag , 
p.  59 ; American  Archives , 4 th  series,  vol.  5,  p.  423. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATION'S,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  91 

[From  the  Richmond  (Ya.)  Whig,  February  13,  1865.] 

The  Proposed  Flag. 

Camp,  February  9,  1865. 

Editor  Whig:  I don’t  see  the  papers  regularly,  and  don’t  understand  whether 
there  has  been  final  and  definite  action  taken  on  the  subject  of  the  change  in  our 
National  Flag.  If  not,  can  you  not  say  something  or  write  something  that  will  check 
Congress  in  doing  such  a foolish  thing?  By  great  good  luck  (I  suppose  on  the  broad 
principle  that  the  “blind  hog”  does  sometimes  “ find  an  acorn  ”)  Congress  had  given  us 
a most  beautiful  and  appropriate  Ensign,  and  I have  had  the  opportunity,  in  the  past  year 
or  so,  of  hearing  it  praised  and  admired  by  persons  of  many  nations.  It  is  our  old  and 
honored  “ Battle  Flag,”  borne  on  a pure  white  field,  indicative  of  the  peace  and  purity 
to  be  achieved  by  the  triumphs  of  the  “ Battle  Flag.”  By  what  incredible  folly  they 
have  determined  to  spoil  this  beautiful  Banner,  by  tacking  on  a meaningless  vertical 
red  stripe  or  bar,  or  what  possible  reason  they  have  for  interfering  with  it  at  all,  is 
more  than  I can  conjecture.  Even  if  a change  were  desirable,  how  puerile  and  ridicu- 
lous it  is  to  see  Congress,  in  such  a crisis  as  this,  debating  for  the  third  time  a change 
in  the  National  Flag,  when  the  question  really  is,  are  we  to  have  a nationality  at  all. 
The  proposed  alteration  is  altogether  for  the  worse ; it  spoils  the  symmetry ; it  is 
utterly  unmeaning  as  an  heraldic  device,  and,  in  my  opinion,  could  only  have  been 
devised  by  a man  devoid  of  taste. 

Probably  it  is  not  very  wise  in  me  to  trouble  myself  about  such  a small  matter ; 
but  you  know  I am  more  than  usually  sensitive  in  matters  of  taste,  and  it  frets  me  to 
see  what  I consider  such  unredeemed  folly.  Do  pray  try  and  see  if  something  cannot 
be  done  to  have  the  matter  reconsidered. 

B.  L.  B. 

We  fully  concur  in  the  views  presented  by  our  correspondent.  The  attempt  to 
change  our  Flag,  for  the  third  time  during  the  war,  is  mere  childishness,  and  should 
not  be  encouraged,  even  though  a manifest  improvement  should  be  suggested  ; but 
when  the  proposed  alteration  detracts  alike  from  appearance  and  the  principles  of  art 
and  the  rules  of  heraldry,  we  cannot  too  much  wonder  that  a grave  body  like  the 
Senate  should  have  thought  it  worth  while  to  pause  in  the  consideration  of  the  most 
momentous  and  pressing  subjects  ever  confided  to  a deliberative  assembly  to  amuse 
themselves  with  such  bawbling  work.  We  look  to  the  House  of  Representatives  to 
give  this  inopportune  trifling  a quietus. 

[See  Plates  VIII,  XI,  Part  I.} 


[From  the  Richmond  (Va.)  Daily  Express,  March  30,  18G5.] 

The  Southern  Cross. 

The  following  stanzas  were  written  by  Miss  Clerk,  of  Queenstown,  Ireland.  They 
have  never  been  published  in  the  Confederacy.  A Baltimore  paper  ventured  to  give 
them  an  insertion  in  its  columns,  the  consequence  of  which  was  its  prompt  suppression 
by  the  Lincoln  authorities  of  that  enslaved  city.  They  are  quite  a handsome  tribute  to 


92  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

our  young  republic,  and  the  more  appreciable  from  the  circumstance  of  their  being  a 
free-will  offering  from  a whole-souled  Irish  lady  : 

Wave  forth  each  fold,  brave  Flag  unroll’d 
In  all  thy  breadth  and  length ! 

Wave  forth  unfurl’d  and  show  the  world 
A new-born  nation’s  strength ! 

Thou  dost  not  wave,  all  bright  and  brave, 

In  holiday  attire ; 

’Mid  cannon  chimes  a thousand  times 
Baptiz’d  in  blood  and  fire. 

No  silken  toy  to  flaunt  in  joy 

Where  careless  shouts  are  heard  ; 

Where  thou  art  borne,  all  scath’d  and  torn, 

A nation’s  heart  is  stirr’d. 

When  half-clad  groups  of  toil-worn  troops 
Are  marching  to  the  wars, 

What  grateful  tears,  what  heartfelt  cheers 
Salute  thy  cross  of  stars ! 

Thou  hast  not  seen  the  pomp  and  sheen, 

The  pageant  of  a court, 

Or  masquerade  of  war’s  parade, 

Where  fields  are  fought  in  sport ; 

But  thou  know’st  well  the  battle  yell 
From  which  the  foemen  reel, 

When  down  the  steeps  resistless  leaps 
A sea  of  Southern  steel. 

Thou  know’st  the  storm  of  balls  that  swarm 
In  dense  and  hurtling  flight 

When  thy  cross  bars,  a blaze  of  stars, 

Plunge  headlong  through  the  fight ; 

For  thou  dost  flood  the  land  with  blood, 

And  sweep  the  seas  with  fire ; 

And  all  the  earth  applauds  the  worth 
Of  deeds  thou  dost  inspire. 

For  thee  is  told  the  merchant’s  gold, 

The  planter’s  harvest  fall ; 

Thine  is  the  gain  of  hand  and  brain, 

And  the  heart’s  wealth  of  all. 

For  thee  each  heart  hath  borne  a part 
With  all  it  holds  most  dear; 

Thro’  all  thy  land  no  woman’s  hand 
Hath  stay’d  one  volunteer. 

Thy  glorious  field  shall  empire  wield 
Supreme  from  sea  to  sea, 

And  proudly  shine  the  favor’d  sign 
Of  peoples  yet  to  be. 

When  thou  shalt  grace  the  hard-won  place 
The  nations  grudge  thee  now, 

No  land  shall  show  to  friend  or  foe 
A nobler  Flag  than  thou. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  93 

Office  New  Orleans  and  Carrollton  Railroad  Company, 

New  Orleans , February  3,  1872. 

Rev.  B.  M.  Palmer, 

President  Southern  Historical  Society , New  Orleans,  La. 

Dear  Sir  : A few  weeks  since  I received  a letter  from  Captain  Geo.  H.  Preble, 
U.  S.  N.,  making  some  inquiries  relative  to  the  origin  of  the  Confederate  “Battle 
Flag”  used  during  the  late  war  by  our  Southern  forces,  and  to  the  device  of  the  Seces- 
sion Flag  of  Louisiana. 

Supposing  that  the  information  contained  in  my  answer  of  the  24th  ultimo  might 
be  of  historical  interest  hereafter,  I take  the  liberty  of  enclosing  you,  for  preservation 
in  the  archives  of  the  Southern  Historical  Society,  a copy  of  my  letter  to  Captain 
Preble,  accompanied  by  the  original  “ Flag”  design,  prepared  by  Mr.  E.  C.  Hancock, 
of  this  city,  and  presented  for  examination  and  adoption  by  Colonel  J.  B.  Walton,  then 
commanding  the  New  Orleans  Washington  Artillery  Battalion,  to  General  Joseph  E. 
Johnston,  at  Fairfax  C.  H.,  Ya.,  in  September,  1861.  [See  Plate  LXXXV,  Part  II.] 

I enclose  you,  also,  the  letter  of  Mr.  Hancock  donating  said  design  to  the  Southern 
Historical  Society,  and  one  from  Colonel  Walton,  identifying  that  drawing  as  the  one 
offered  to  General  Johnston ; also,  a letter  to  me  from  Colonel  Wm.  Porcher  Miles, 
chairman  of  the  House  Military  Committee,  dated  August  27,  1861  [see  page  2], 
relative  to  the  change,  recommended  by  me,  of  our  first  Confederate  National  Flag,  and 
submitted  by  me  to  General  Johnston  and  G.  W.  Smith  before  we  adopted  the  well- 
known  “Battle  Flag  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,”  which  became,  after  having  been 
consecrated  by  many  a hard-fought  battle,  the  “ union”  of  the  second  and  third  Con- 
federate National  Flags. 

I remain,  dear  sir,  yours,  most  truly, 

G.  T.  BEAUREGARD. 


New  Orleans,  La.,  January  24,  1872. 

Capt.  George  H.  Preble, 

U.  S.  Navy,  Naval  Rendezvous,  Boston  Navy-  Yard. 

Dear  Sir:  In  answer  to  the  inquiries  contained  in  your  letter  of  the  3d  instant, 
relative  to  the  origin  of  the  Confederate  “ Battle  Flag  ” and  the  devices  of  the  Louisiana 
State  Flag  flying  on  the  City  Hall  of  New  Orleans  when  Commodore  Farragut  appeared 
before  this  city  in  April,  1862,  I give  you  with  pleasure  the  following  information  : 

At  the  battle  of  Manassas,  on  the  21st  July,  1861,  I found  it  difficult  to  distinguish 
our  then  Confederate  Flag  from  the  United  States  Flag  (the  two  being  so  much  alike), 
especially  when  General  Jubal  A.  Early  made  the  flank  movement  -which  decided  the 
fate  of  the  day,  and  I resolved  then  to  have  ours  changed,  if  possible,  or  to  adopt  for 
my  command  a “ Battle  Flag”  which  would  be  entirely  different  from  any  State  or 
Federal  Flag. 

After  the  battle,  it  was  found  that  many  persons  in  both  armies  firmly  believed 
that  each  side  had  used,  as  a stratagem,  the  Flags  of  his  opponent.  General  Joseph 


94  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

E.  Johnston,  commanding  the  Confederate  States  forces,  determined  to  have  the 
troops  furnished  with  their  State  Flags,  and  I entered  into  correspondence  with  Colonel 
Wm.  Porcher  Miles,  chairman  of  the  House  Military  Committee,  to  have  our  National 
Flag  changed  ; but  that  was  found  to  be  impracticable  at  the  time,  and  none  of  the 
States,  except  Virginia,  having  furnished  Flags  to  their  troops,  General  Johnston,  on 
consultation  at  Fairfax  Court-House,  Va.,  with  General  G.  W.  Smith,  commanding  the 
Army  of  the  Shenandoah  (2d  corps),  and  myself,  commanding  the  Army  of  the 
Potomac  (1st  corps),  decided  to  adopt  a Battle  Flag  for  our  forces. 

Many  designs  were  presented,  and  we  gave  the  preference  to  one  of  those  offered 
by  Colonel  J.  B.  Walton,  commanding  the  Louisiana  Washington  Artillery,  which 
corresponded  closely  to  the  one  recommended  by  Colonel  Miles  to  Congress,  as  cur 
first  National  Flag.  Both  were  oblong,  the  field  was  red,  the  bars  blue,  and  the  stars 
white,  but  Colonel  Walton’s  had  the  Latin  cross  and  Colonel  Miles’  the  St.  Andrew’s, 
which  removed  the  objection  that  many  of  our  soldiers  might  have  to  fight  under  the 
former  symbol.  General  Johnston  preferred  a square  Flag,  to  render  it  more  con- 
venient to  carry,  and  we  finally  adopted,  in  September,  1861,  the  well-known  “Battle 
Flag  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac”  (as  it  was  first  called),  to  which  our  soldiers 
became  so  devoted.  Its  field  was  red  or  crimson,  its  bars  were  blue,  running  diagonally 
across  from  one  corner  to  the  other,  and  the  stars  on  them  were  white  or  gold,  their 
number  being  equal  to  the  number  of  States  in  the  Confederacy  ; the  blue  bars  were 
separated  from  the  red  field  by  a small  white  fillet.  [See  Plate  X,  Part  I.] 

The  size  of  the  Flag  for  infantry  was  fixed  at  4x4  feet,  for  artillery  at  3x3  feet,  and 
for  cavalry  at  2£x2J  feet.  It  had  the  merit  of  being  small  and  light,  and  of  being  very 
distinct  at  great  distances,  but  it  was  not  accepted  by  the  Confederate  Government  until 
it  had  been  consecrated  by  many  a hard-fought  battle,  when  it  became  the  “union” 
of  our  second  and  third  Confederate  National  Flags.  When  I assumed  command 
of  the  troops  in  Western  Tennessee,  February,  1862,  I found  that  General  Polk  had 
adopted  for  his  forces  a Flag  nearly  similar  to  the  one  I had  adopted  for  the  Army  of 
the  Potomac,  i.  e.,  a blue  field  with  a white  St.  Andrew’s  cross,  and  blue  or  gold 
stars.  General  Hardee  had  for  his  division  a blue  field,  with  a full  white  circle  in  its 
centre.  I gave  orders  to  have  them  replaced  as  soon  as  practicable  by  the  Battle  Flag 
of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac.  In  September,  1862,  when  I returned  to  Charleston,  I 
submitted  the  same  Banner  for  the  State  Flags  then  principally  used  in  the  Department 
of  South  Carolina,  Georgia,  and  Florida.  It  became  thus  in  our  armies  the  emblem 
of  Southern  valor  and  patriotism. 

Should  we  ever  be  compelled  to  have  a foreign  war,  I trust  that  this  Standard  will 
be  adopted  as  our  National  Battle  Flag,  to  which  Southern  soldiers  will  always  gladly 
rally  in  a just  cause. 

The  State  Flag,  referred  to  by  you,  was  adopted  by  the  secession  convention,  and 
contained  thirteen  stripes — four  blue,  six  white,  and  three  red,  commencing  at  top  with 
colors  as  written.  The  “union”  was  red,  with  its  sides  equal  to  the  width  of  seven 
stripes ; in  its  centre  was  a single  pale  yellow  star,  with  five  points. 

I remain,  yours,  very  truly, 

G.  T.  BEAUREGARD. 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  95 


Gen.  Beauregard,  New  Orleans. 


New  Orleans,  January  30,  1872. 


Dear  Sir  : The  Flag  design  referred  to  by  you  in  your  communication  to  Captain 
Preble,  U.  S.  Navy,  as  having  been  submitted  for  adoption  at  the  consultation  held  at 
Fairfax  Court-House,  Ya.,  subsequent  to  the  Battle  of  Manassas,  was,  at  my  request, 
designed  and  executed  by  Mr.  Edward  C.  Hancock  (now  associate  editor  of  the  New 
Orleans  Times),  sometime  during  the  month  of  April,  1861.  On  leaving  New  Orleans 
with  my  command  for  Richmond,  in  May,  1861,  I carried  with  me  the  design  to  that 
city,  where  it  was  freely  exhibited  and  generally  approved.  Among  others,  it  was 
shown  to  Colonel  Porcher  Miles,  member  of  the  Flag  Committee. 

In  regard  to  its  adoption  by  the  conference  of  officers  and  subsequent  modification 
to  correspond  with  Colonel  Miles’  draft,  I beg  leave  to  confirm  the  statement  made  by 
yourself  to  Captain  George  H.  Preble,  U.  S.  Navy.  The  original  design  remained  in 
my  possession  until  about  a year  ago,  when,  recognizing  its  probable  historic  value,  I 
returned  it  to  Mr.  Hancock,  who  now  transmits  it  to  your  care.  In  conclusion,  I have 
only  to  state  that  there  can  be  no  doubt  in  regard  to  the  design  forwarded  having  been 
the  original  of  the  Confederate  Flag,  and  as  such  it  is  entitled  to  careful  preservation. 

I am,  General,  very  respectfully,  yours, 

J.  B.  WALTON. 


[See  Plate  LXXXY,  Part  II.] 


Office  of  the  New  Orleans  Times, 

No.  70  Camp  Street,  New  Orleans,  Febniary  2,  1872. 

Gen.  G.  T.  Beauregard. 

Sir:  In  response  to  your  expressed  wishes,  I herewith  transmit,  for  donation  to 
the  Historical  Society,  the  original  Flag  design  prepared  by  me  in  the  month  of  April, 
1861,  at  the  request  of  Colonel  J.  B.  Walton. 

Colonel  Walton  returned  the  document  to  me  about  one  year  ago,  advising  its  care- 
ful preservation  as  an  historical  memento.  Believing  that  this  end  can  be  best  achieved 
in  the  manner  proposed,  I cheerfully  intrust  it  to  your  care. 

With  the  highest  considerations  of  esteem, 

I remain,  General,  respectfully,  yours, 

E.  C.  HANCOCK. 


Office  New  Orleans  and  Carrollton  Railroad  Company, 

New  Orleans,  June  26,  1872. 

Dr.  J.  W.  Caldwell,  Secretary  Southern  Historical  Society, 

No.  63  Prytania  Street,  New  Orleans. 

Dear  Sir:  Enclosed  please  find  the  printed  copy  of  a letter  from  Colonel  Wm. 
Porcher  Miles,  formerly  of  South  Carolina,  but  now  of  Virginia,  in  which  he  gives 
additional  information  relative  to  the  origin  of  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag.  May  I 


96  EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL. 

request  that  this  letter  of  Colonel  Miles  should  he  filed  with  the  other  communications 
on  the  same  subject  I had  the  honor  of  enclosing  to  the  Southern  Historical  Society  in 
February  last. 

I remain,  yours,  very  truly, 

G.  T.  BEAUREGARD. 

[From  the  New  Orleans  Times,  June  25, 1872.] 

The  Confederate  Battle  Flag. 

Oak  Ridge,  Nelson  Co.,  Va.,  May  14,  1872. 
Gen.  G.  T.  Beauregard,  New  Orleans , La. 

Mr  Dear  General:  A friend  has  shown  me  an  article,  copied  from  the  New 
Orleans  Times,  containing  letters  from  yourself  and  Colonel  Walton  touching  the  origin 
of  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag.  It  is  certainly  not  worth  while  for  us  vanquished 
Confederates  to  contend  among  ourselves  for  the  honor  (if  there  be  any  honor  in  it)  of 
having  designed  it,  and  cheerfully  would  I yield  my  own  pretensions  to  any  merit  what- 
ever in  the  matter  to  the  gallant  Colonel  who,  with  his  noble  battalion,  so  bravely  upheld 
it  until  the  overwhelming  hosts  of  our  invaders  compelled  us  to  furl  it  in  sorrow,  but  not 
in  shame.  But,  as  I have  many  times  said  to  many  persons  that  the  Battle  Flag  was  my 
design,  and  that  I had  been  instrumental  in  its  adoption,  and  never  until  now  supposed 
that  the  fact  had  ever  been  called  in  question,  I feel  some  sensitiveness,  since  Colonel 
Walton’s  letter  and  yours  have  been  published,  lest  my  reputation  for  veracity  may 
suffer  somewhat ; and,  although  I hope  that,  those  who  know  me  will  not  believe  that 
from  any  petty  motive  of  vanity  1 would  falsify  facts,  still  there  may  be  others  who  will 
think  that,  like  the  jackdaw  in  iEsop,  I have  had  a borrowed  feather  plucked  from  me 
by  the  publication  aforesaid.  Let  me  beg,  therefore,  that  you  will  do  me  the  favor  of 
giving  the  same  publicity  to  my  statement  that  Colonel  Walton’s  has  received. 

At  the  Provisional  Congress  which  met  in  Montgomery  I was  chairman  of  the 
committee  on  devising  a Flag.  We  had  hundreds  of  designs  submitted  to  us  from  all 
parts  of  the  country.  Not  one  of  them  in  the  least  resembled  the  Battle  Flag.  The 
committee  could  not  agree  upon  a Flag.  They  finally  determined  to  submit  four 
designs  to  Congress,  from  which  they  should,  by  vote,  select  one.  One  of  the  four  was 
the  Flag  that  was  adopted,  the  first  Flag  of  the  Confederacy — a field  of  three  horizontal 
bars  or  stripes,  red,  white,  and  red,  with  blue  union  and  stars.  Another  of  the  four 
was  a red  field,  with  a blue  ring  or  circle  in  the  centre.  Another  was  composed  of  a 
number  of  horizontal  stripes  (I  forget  bow  many)  of  red  and  blue  (none  white),  with 
blue  union  and  stars  like  the  first.  The  fourth  was  a saltier,  as  it  is  called  in  heraldry, 
the  same  as  a St.  Andrew’s  cross,  of  blue,  with  white  margin  or  border,  on  a red  field, 
with  white  stars,  equal  to  number  of  States,  on  the  cross.  This  was  my  design,  and 
urged  upon  the  Congress  earnestly  by  me.  Now,  the  only  difference  between  this  and 
the  Confederate  Battle  Flag  is  that  the  latter  was  made  square,  for  greater  lightness  and 
portability,  -while  the  one  submitted  to  Congress  was,  of  course,  of  the  usual  proportions 
of  a Flag — i.  e.,  oblong.  Models,  of  considerable  size,  of  the  four  Flags  submitted  were 
made  of  colored  cambric,  and  hung  up  in  the  hall  where  Congress  sat,  and  they  were 


EDITORIALS,  COMMUNICATIONS,  ETC. — FLAG  AND  SEAL.  97 


afterwards  long  in  my  possession,  as  was  also  the  first  Confederate  Flag,  made  of  merino 
(there  being  no  bunting  at  hand),  that,  within  an  hour  or  two  of  its  adoption  (thanks 
to  fair  and  nimble  fingers),  floated  over  the  State  Capitol  of  Alabama,  where  Congress 
held  its  sessions.  Unfortunately,  they  were  all  lost  or  destroyed  during  the  war.  If 
they  could  be  produced,  they  would  settle  the  question  as  to  the  “ origin  of  the  Con- 
federate Battle  Flag:”  but  there  must  be  many  members  of  the  Provisional  Congress 
who  remember  and  cau  testify  to  the  correctness  of  the  above  statements.  Now  all 
this  happened  before  you  captured  Fort  Sumter — before  April,  1861 — sometime  during 
which  month.  Colonel  Walton  says,  Mr.  Hancock,  at  his  request,  designed  his  Flag. 
Excuse  me,  dear  General,  this  long  epistle,  which  possibly  may  suggest  “ monies  partu- 
riunt .”  But  if  Colonel  Walton  is  right  in  supposing  that  his  design  is  worthy  of  careful 
preservation  as  a historical  memento,  and  as,  in  your  letter  to  Dr.  Palmer,  president 
of  the  Southern  Historical  Society,  you  say  that  information  concerning  the  Flag  in 
question  “might  be  of  historical  interest  hereafter,”  and  enclose  him  a copy  of  your 
letter  to  Captain  Preble  “for  preservation  in  the  archives  of  the  Society,”  I hope  my 
vindication  of  the  “truth  of  history,”  even  in  a matter  so  unimportant  in  itself,  may 
be  considered  worthy  of  publication  in  the  Times,  and  of  being  filed  away,  also,  with 
your  and  Colonel  Walton’s  letters,  in  the  archives  of  the  same  society. 

With  sentiments  of  the  highest  regard, 

I am.  my  dear  General,  very  faithfully,  yours, 

WM.  PORCHER  MILES. 

New  Orleans,  June  3,  1872. 

I take  pleasure  in  complying  with  the  above  request  of  Colonel  Miles,  whose  letter 
throws  additional  light  on  the  origin  of  the  Confederate  Battle  Flag. 

G.  T.  BEAUREGARD. 


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